BENUE: ATM COLLEGE PUPILS HOLD STREET VIGIL FOR SLAIN CLASSMATE, DEMAND JUSTICE & SOLDIERS' WITHDRAWAL. (PHOTOS).

 BENUE: ATM COLLEGE PUPILS HOLD STREET VIGIL FOR SLAIN CLASSMATE, DEMAND JUSTICE & SOLDIERS' WITHDRAWAL

2nd October, 2025  

 Students of ATM Science and Technical College poured onto the streets of Jato-Aka in tears yesterday as they mourned the death of their classmate, Miss Songo Gloria. Miss Gloria was among those shot by soldiers during an incident on 30 September 2025 and succumbed to her injuries in the early hours of the following day.

The grieving students held an impromptu vigil, carrying placards and chanting for justice. Several described Miss Gloria as a quiet, hard-working pupil whose life was cut short. “Tears can’t stop rolling down our faces,” one student told reporters, speaking on condition of anonymity. “She was our friend. We want answers and we want those responsible held accountable.”

Leaders of the student body called for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shootings and demanded the immediate withdrawal of soldiers from Jato-Aka. “In one voice: we don’t need soldiers in Jato-Aka again,” a student representative said. The group urged state and federal authorities to act swiftly to prevent further loss of civilian life.

Community members and local leaders also appealed for calm while calling for justice. They asked security agencies and the relevant civilian oversight bodies to investigate without delay and to ensure transparent communication with the bereaved family.

Officials from the school and local government had not issued a full statement at press time. The family of Miss Gloria has asked for privacy as arrangements are made. Human rights organisations and civil society groups monitoring the situation have been urged to visit the area and document events.

Note to authorities

Students and residents are demanding a credible, independent inquiry and tangible measures to protect civilians. They insist that justice for Miss Songo Gloria — and for all victims of the 30 September incident — is non-negotiable.

More photos below.