Shock in Taraba as University Community Mourns Young Students
The Taraba State University (TSU) community has been thrown into mourning following the shocking discovery of the lifeless body of a first-year student identified as Comfort Jimtop Oliver.
She was a 100-level Mass Communication student from Takum Local Government Area, Taraba State. Her body was reportedly found inside her boyfriend’s apartment in the Bakasi area of Jalingo, the state capital.
TJ News Nigeria reports that the incident has raised widespread concern among students, residents, and law enforcement authorities, who are now investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.
How the Incident Unfolded
According to eyewitness accounts, Comfort’s body was discovered lying on a bed inside the apartment on Thursday. At the scene, empty bottles of alcohol were allegedly found beside her, deepening suspicions about what might have transpired before her death.
Residents confirmed that the apartment is located within a shared compound, housing multiple tenants. Following the discovery of the deceased student, it was reported that both her boyfriend and other occupants of the compound abandoned the premises, raising further suspicions about possible foul play.
The police were immediately alerted and have since commenced investigations to determine the actual cause of death.
The Boyfriend and Police Investigation
The boyfriend of the late student has been identified as Emmanuel Shata. Reports indicate that he was present in the house earlier but has not been seen since the incident occurred.
The Taraba State Police Command confirmed that investigations are ongoing. Police spokespersons in Jalingo assured the public that every lead is being followed, including locating the boyfriend and other tenants for questioning.
Law enforcement officials also revealed that the body has been moved to the morgue for examination. An autopsy has been ordered to determine whether the deceased was poisoned, died from alcohol consumption, or was a victim of criminal activity.
New Twist: Key Suspect Found Dead
In a dramatic turn of events, another young man identified as Emmanuel Kefas, alleged to be linked to the case, was discovered dead in the Tudiri community of Ardo-Kola Local Government Area.
Police sources confirmed that a Tecno Android phone was found beside his body. When the device was powered on, investigators discovered a photograph showing Kefas together with the deceased, Comfort Jimtop.
The body of Emmanuel Kefas has been transferred to the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, for post-mortem examination as police expand their investigation.
This new development has sparked speculation and heightened the mystery surrounding the student’s tragic death. However, authorities have urged the public to remain calm and allow the investigative process to take its full course.
University Authorities React
Officials of Taraba State University expressed deep sorrow over the loss of one of their students. The Vice-Chancellor and other academic leaders have pledged their cooperation with security agencies to uncover the truth behind the incident.
The Mass Communication Department, where Comfort was enrolled as a first-year student, has described her as a promising young woman whose academic journey ended abruptly in circumstances yet to be fully explained.
Colleagues and course mates have been seen expressing grief across campus, while student union leaders called for justice and transparency in the ongoing investigations.
Community and Public Reactions
The news of Comfort’s death has sent shockwaves across Jalingo and beyond. Many residents of Bakasi community described the development as disturbing, especially the fact that several tenants fled the compound after the discovery.
Parents and guardians of university students in Taraba State are now calling for increased safety measures, particularly regarding student welfare and off-campus accommodation.
On social media platforms, tributes have poured in for the deceased, while many Nigerians are demanding thorough investigations to ensure justice is served.
Key Questions Under Investigation
Authorities are working to answer several pressing questions:
- What exactly caused Comfort’s death?
- Was alcohol consumption the sole factor, or were harmful substances involved?
- Why did her boyfriend and other tenants abandon the premises immediately after the incident?
- What role, if any, did Emmanuel Kefas play before his own death?
- Are there other suspects connected to the tragedy?
Only the outcome of the autopsy and full police investigation will provide clarity on these issues.
The Taraba State Police Command has assured the public that updates will be provided as investigations progress. Residents and students have been urged to volunteer credible information that may assist the inquiry.
Meanwhile, Comfort’s family, relatives, and community in Takum Local Government are said to be devastated by the tragic news. Funeral arrangements will depend on the conclusion of police investigations and autopsy results.
