Tragedy Strikes Taraba State University: Three Lecturers Succumb to Death within 48 Hours
Faculty members of Taraba State University (TSU) in Jalingo are reeling in shock and concern following the sudden and consecutive deaths of three colleagues, including a professor, a PhD holder, and a lecturer, within a span of 48 hours.
A Professor Akporido Samuel, former head of the Department of Chemical Sciences, collapsed and passed away in his office on Thursday. Dr. Kiliobas Sha’a, former head of the Department of Biological Sciences, died suddenly in the early hours of the next day, coinciding with the passing of Ibrahim Saleh Bali, a lecturer in the Department of Educational Foundations.
According to sources, Professor Samuel’s death was unexpected, occurring as he collapsed in his office, while Dr. Sha’a and Mr. Bali, who had been battling a prolonged illness, passed away at his home and the Federal Medical Centre in Jalingo, respectively.
A family member revealed that Mr. Bali, who had sold his possessions to fund his medical expenses, ultimately died while in his village after being transported there by university officials.
Lecturers are deeply concerned about the sequence of events and the underlying issues contributing to the deaths, including financial struggles and hardships that they too are facing.
“Their passing serves as a stark reminder to all of us of the challenges we face here and the reality that it can happen to anyone. We urge the government and university authority to address our demands and alleviate our hardship,” said a lecturer, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Dr. Mbave Joshua, chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Taraba State University, echoed the concerns of his colleagues. “Lecturers at our institution are under immense pressure due to the lack of financial support. We need urgent intervention to improve our working conditions,” he emphasized.
As this report was being filed, the director of Information at Taraba State University, Mallam Sanusi Sa’ad, was unavailable for comment on the reported deaths of the lecturers, failing to respond to calls.
