The University of Jos (UNIJOS) community has been thrown into deep mourning and confusion following the arrest of a 200-level student accused of killing his close friend and fellow student in a shocking act of violence. The Plateau State Police Command confirmed the arrest of Nanpon Timnan, a second-year student of Agriculture, for allegedly killing Peter Mafuyai, a 300-level student from the Department of Banking and Finance.
The gruesome incident, which has sent shockwaves across the university campus and beyond, reportedly took place at an off-campus residence in Jos, Plateau State, where both students lived. According to reports, the suspect allegedly attacked and killed his best friend before burying the body in a shallow grave behind their house.
How the Tragic Incident Happened
Preliminary investigations reveal that both students were close friends who often spent time together, engaging in social and academic activities. On the fateful day, they were said to have returned home from playing football and later visited a recording studio before the incident occurred.
Upon their return, sources claimed that an argument erupted between the two friends, leading to a violent outburst. In a shocking turn of events, the suspect reportedly fetched a machete and struck his friend multiple times, resulting in his death.
Rather than alerting neighbours or authorities, he allegedly buried the victim’s body in a shallow grave behind the compound — a discovery that would later horrify students and residents alike when the truth came to light.
Discovery of the Crime and Police Response
After the sudden disappearance of the victim, neighbours and other students grew suspicious. The matter was reported to local authorities, prompting an investigation by the Plateau State Police Command. Officers acted swiftly and uncovered the shallow grave containing the victim’s remains.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Plateau State, DSP Alfred Alabo, stated that the suspect had been arrested and was currently in custody. He further revealed that investigations were ongoing to uncover the motive behind the crime and to ensure that justice is served.
According to the police, the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive investigation, while the body of the deceased has been deposited at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) mortuary for autopsy.
UNIJOS Authorities and Students React
The University of Jos management has expressed deep shock and sadness over the tragic development. A university spokesperson, while addressing reporters, described the incident as “deeply disturbing and painful,” especially considering that both the victim and the suspect were young, promising students.
The university pledged full cooperation with security agencies to ensure that the matter is thoroughly investigated and that justice takes its full course.
Students on campus have also reacted with disbelief, describing the incident as a “terrible loss” and “a dark moment for UNIJOS.” Many have taken to social media to express their grief, prayers, and concerns over increasing cases of violence among young people.
Community Shock and Calls for Mental Health Awareness
The shocking nature of the murder has sparked conversations across Jos and Nigerian campuses about the growing need for mental health awareness, conflict management, and student emotional support systems.
Experts say such extreme acts of violence among peers highlight deeper emotional, psychological, or social issues that need urgent attention in tertiary institutions.
Community leaders in Plateau State have urged the university to partner with mental health organizations to provide regular counselling and peer relationship programs aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Police Investigation: Search for Motive and Justice
Police investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the killing. Although the suspect has confessed to the act, investigators are working to establish whether the murder was premeditated or the result of a heated argument that got out of control.
According to reports, the police have also recovered the murder weapon — a machete allegedly used in the attack — and other key evidence that will be presented in court. The suspect is expected to face prosecution once investigations are completed.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation as they continue their efforts to uncover the full details surrounding the case.
Safety Concerns for Students in Off-Campus Residences
This incident has reignited growing concerns about the safety of students living off-campus, not only in Jos but in many parts of Nigeria.
Many Nigerian universities face challenges in monitoring student welfare and security in private hostels and rented apartments located outside the school’s main environment.
Parents and guardians have been advised to maintain regular contact with their wards, while students are urged to choose accommodation carefully, live with trusted individuals, and report any suspicious behaviour to the authorities.
The Plateau State Police Command also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents and urged students to promptly report any form of violence, threats, or strange activities around their neighbourhoods.
University Community in Mourning
The death of Peter Mafuyai has cast a shadow of sadness over the entire University of Jos community. Friends described him as a cheerful and intelligent young man with a bright future.
Candlelight processions and prayer sessions are being organized by student groups to honour his memory, while many continue to question how a friendship could end in such a heartbreaking and violent tragedy.
The university management has promised to provide support to the victim’s family and has called for peace and unity among students as investigations continue.
