The entire student community at Isa Mustapha Agwai Polytechnic in Lafia, Nasarawa State, has been shaken by the tragic death of Timothy Achinya, a mechanical engineering student. Achinya was allegedly tortured to death by unidentified soldiers, sparking outrage and demands for justice across the campus.
The tragic incident started when a student named Samuel Ejembi reported certain students to soldiers, claiming they were involved in cult activities. The military, responding to this tip, arrived at Eji World, an entertainment spot opposite the polytechnic’s campus, and arrested several students, including Timothy Achinya. Both the accuser and the accused students were taken into military custody on that Friday.
What followed was a tragic turn of events. Timothy Achinya, while in military detention, reportedly endured severe torture at the hands of soldiers. His injuries were so severe that he did not survive. His body was later transferred to Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital (DASH) in Lafia.
The news of Achinya’s death sent shockwaves throughout the polytechnic. Students were deeply saddened and angered by the brutal way in which their peer had lost his life. However, despite the overwhelming grief, the students have shown remarkable restraint, maintaining peace on campus and refraining from violent protests.
The President of the Students Union Government (SUG), Jacob John Mutuwa, confirmed the sequence of events leading to Achinya’s tragic demise and praised the students for their composure in such difficult times. Mutuwa, speaking on behalf of the student body, emphasized that the students are committed to seeking justice through legal channels.
He also highlighted that legal proceedings against those responsible for Achinya’s death have already begun, with the polytechnic administration supporting the efforts to ensure the case is properly handled. The Acting Rector of the polytechnic, Dr. Nurudeen Mu’azu Maifata, expressed the institution’s grief and confirmed that they would be taking legal action to ensure that justice is served.
The tragic death of Achinya has not only affected the polytechnic community but has also caught the attention of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). The student body is demanding swift action to hold the culprits accountable.
Comrade Daniel Friday Egga, the NANS Coordinator for Zone C, issued a strong statement condemning the military’s involvement in the incident. Egga called on the Nasarawa State government and concerned citizens to work together in seeking justice for Achinya and his family. He also accused specific soldiers from the 123 Special Force Battalion of being responsible for Achinya’s death and urged the military to take immediate action against those involved.
Egga emphasized that this was not only a case of wrongful death but also a grave violation of human rights. He warned that if immediate steps were not taken, students across Nigeria would rise in solidarity to protest the injustice, creating nationwide unrest.
In response to the accusations, the Nasarawa State Police Command has promised to investigate the matter thoroughly. DSP Ramhan Nansel, the Police Public Relations Officer, assured the public that an inquiry into the incident would be conducted. At the time of this report, no official statement had been released by the military regarding the involvement of their personnel in the alleged torture of Achinya.
However, there is significant public pressure on both the police and the military to provide answers and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
This tragic incident has once again brought to the forefront the issue of military involvement in civilian matters in Nigeria. While the military plays a crucial role in national defense, there are growing concerns about the misuse of military power, especially in situations involving civilians.
For the students of Lafia Polytechnic, Achinya’s death is a painful reminder of the importance of accountability and justice. As legal proceedings begin, the school community is determined to see that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
The leadership of the polytechnic and the SUG have been working closely with legal experts to ensure that the case receives the attention it deserves. They are also encouraging students to remain calm and peaceful as the case unfolds.
The loss of Timothy Achinya has left a deep scar on the polytechnic, but it has also united students, faculty, and the broader community in their resolve to seek justice and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.
Timothy Achinya’s death is a tragic reminder of the dangers of unchecked military power and the importance of accountability. The students and staff of Lafia Polytechnic, along with national student bodies like NANS, are demanding justice, not just for Achinya but for every Nigerian student who seeks a peaceful learning environment.
As the legal process continues, all eyes will be on the authorities to ensure that justice is served, and that those responsible for this tragic loss are held accountable for their actions.
