A 25-year-old student of the Federal University of Education, Kontagora, Seyi Simon, was killed on Sunday after he was fatally stabbed during a dispute with another student.
PUNCH Metro gathered on Monday that Simon was allegedly stabbed to death by an 18-year-old student, Jafar Musa, during an altercation at about 1:40am inside the school hall during a celebration for newly admitted students themed "The Freshers' Fair."
Confirming the incident, the Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, told PUNCH Metro via WhatsApp that the case was reported at A Division, Kontagora.
He said, "On 5/4/2026, at about 1:40 a.m., it was reported at A Division, Kontagora, that during a party organised by students for newly admitted students at FUE Kontagora in the school hall, there was a misunderstanding between Jafar Musa, 18, and Seyi Simon, 25, a student of the school."
Abiodun added that the disagreement quickly escalated into violence.
"In the course of the fight, Musa stabbed the student with a dagger. The victim was rushed to General Hospital, Kontagora, where he was confirmed dead, while the suspect was arrested for further investigation," he said.
The police added that the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, especially on X, where users expressed alarm over the death of the student.
Leading the reaction, X user @Ezinwanne_ wrote, "The level of violence in our universities is becoming a pandemic." If a party can turn into a crime scene this easily, it shows how many cultists and criminals are hiding behind student IDs."
Another user, @Abdul_H_M_, stated, "Could this be related to cultism? But for God's sake, it's a freshers' party. How does a freshers' party turn bloody when it's supposed to be all fun?"
"I blame poor parenting and poor law enforcement. Parents leave their underage children on the streets to cater for themselves. That must stop. We must take responsibility.
"The government must recruit more and equip law enforcement officers as crime is becoming the norm," @Grateful_salafi added.
@AyigunA commented, "A freshers' party turning deadly at the Federal University of Education, Kontagora, is a tragic reminder of how quickly celebration can descend into violence.
"The stabbing of a student underscores the urgent need for stronger campus security, conflict prevention, and community awareness.
"Universities are meant to be safe spaces for learning and growth, and when such incidents occur, they shatter trust and highlight the importance of prioritising student safety above all else."
Also expressing concern, @prof_hydee said, "This is heartbreaking." Campus should be a safe space for celebration, not tragedy. Hoping the university takes serious action on security."