Association seeks transfer of rape victim, compensation for stolen belongings, security checkpoint
JALINGO — Tuesday, September 22, 2026: The National Association of Nurses (NAN) has called on the Taraba State Government to urgently strengthen security around the Taraba State College of Nursing Sciences, Jalingo, following recent attacks on students, including the alleged rape of a female student.
The association made the call on Monday when its executive members paid a courtesy visit to the Taraba State Ministry of Tertiary Education in Jalingo to formally brief the ministry on the security incidents and seek government intervention.
The visit, which commenced at 11:00 a.m., was held at the office of the Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Solomon D. Nathaniel.
The association had earlier visited the College to identify with the students and management following the attacks.
Speaking during the meeting, the Public Relations Officer of NAN introduced members of the executive committee and explained that the association decided to engage the ministry after assessing the situation at the College firsthand.
The Chairman of the association expressed appreciation to the ministry for granting the delegation an audience, while recounting the security challenges faced by the students, including an attack on their hostels and the subsequent rape of a female student.
According to him, the incident has left the affected students traumatised, with one of the victims still receiving medical treatment in hospital.
He appealed to the College management and the state government to facilitate the transfer of the rape victim to another institution, arguing that the alleged stigmatisation she faces could make it difficult for her to continue her studies comfortably at the College.
The Chairman also raised concern over the vulnerability of female students in the area, particularly during robbery and other attacks.
He noted that many of the students come from financially disadvantaged families and appealed to the government to consider replacing phones and other valuables reportedly stolen from students during the attacks to reduce the financial burden on their parents.
The association further called for the establishment of a police outpost or military checkpoint around the area to strengthen security and deter further attacks.
Responding, the Secretary of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Mr. Solomon D. Nathaniel, thanked NAN for the visit and described its recommendations as important.
Mr. Nathaniel disclosed that when the incidents occurred, the Commissioner and Permanent Secretary of the ministry were away on official engagements but had directed a delegation to visit the College and inspect the scenes of the reported crimes, including the location where the alleged rape occurred.
He assured the delegation that the concerns and recommendations raised would be communicated to the top management of the ministry.
The Secretary stressed the need for all relevant stakeholders to work together to prevent a breakdown of law and order, noting that Governor Agbu Kefas attaches significant importance to the education sector.
The meeting was attended by executive members of NAN and officials of the Ministry of Tertiary Education and ended with a group photograph.
