Tragedy Strikes Taraba State University as Three Lecturers Die Within 48 Hours

Concerns have intensified among the faculty members of Taraba State University (TSU) in Jalingo after the sudden deaths of three colleagues, including a professor, a PhD holder, and a lecturer, within 48 hours.

Reports indicate that Professor Akporido Samuel, a former head of the Department of Chemical Sciences, collapsed and passed away in his office on Thursday. Similarly, Dr. Kiliobas Sha’a, former head of the Department of Biological Sciences, succumbed to high blood pressure at home early Friday morning.

The third victim, Mr. Ibrahim Saleh Bali, a lecturer in the Department of Educational Foundations, died after a prolonged illness at the Federal Medical Centre in Jalingo.

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Sources disclosed that Professor Samuel’s death was sudden, while Dr. Sha’a had battled high blood pressure. Mr. Bali’s passing followed a period of financial struggles, during which he reportedly sold his belongings to fund his medical treatment before being relocated to his village by university officials, where he later died.

The deaths have sparked fear and apprehension among TSU faculty members, many of whom are reportedly grappling with similar financial hardships.

“These deaths remind us of the harsh realities we face as lecturers in this institution. It feels like it could happen to any of us. We’re pleading with the government and university authorities to address our demands—we’re enduring severe hardships,” a lecturer said anonymously.

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Dr. Mbave Joshua, chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at TSU, expressed deep concern over the lecturers’ working conditions. He highlighted the severe financial constraints affecting educators at the university, which have compounded their struggles.

Efforts to reach the university’s director of information, Mallam Sanusi Sa’ad, for comments were unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls.

Faculty members continue to call for immediate intervention to improve their working conditions and prevent further tragedies.

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