The Vice‑Chancellor of Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Prof. Timothy Alabar, announced that four members of the gang suspected of murdering Professor Gabriel Nyityo and his younger brother have been taken into custody. The briefing, held in the university's Senate Chambers to mark Alabar's first six months in office, confirmed that the suspects were among five alleged cattle‑rustlers from Awe Local Government Area in Nasarawa State.
Professor Nyityo, a founding member of the History Department, was killed on July 7 2026 after the assailants, unable to locate cattle, entered his home after noticing its lights and believed the occupants possessed money. The gunmen fled the following day toward Nasarawa State, where four were later apprehended.
Alabar stated that the four detainees are now held in Benue State, with interrogation by security agencies ongoing. He added that, as of last Friday, the gang leader remains at large. The arrested suspects have been arraigned and are being kept at a correctional
The arrest of four suspects in the killing of Professor Gabriel Nyityo brings partial closure, but the fact that the gang leader remains at large raises concerns about the completeness of justice and the safety of academic staff in isolated residences. This matters to the university community and Benue State Government, as unresolved leadership in criminal networks could undermine efforts to secure staff and restore confidence in campus safety.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
