Gunmen Kill NOUN Bursar in Gusau

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has announced the death of its Bursar, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa, saying he reportedly lost his life after being shot while returning from Gusau.

The institution made the announcement in an official notice signed by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Adetayo Ajayi, on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Governing Council, Management, Senate, staff and students.

Expressing shock over the incident, the university described Marafa’s death as a devastating loss to the institution and its wider community.

“According to information available to the University, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa was reportedly shot while returning from Gusau,” the statement read.

NOUN said the late bursar was a loyal and hardworking officer who distinguished himself through years of dedicated service, holding several positions of responsibility before his appointment as the University’s Bursar in September 2026.

The statement noted that he assumed the office with “a strong sense of duty and commitment to the advancement of the University.”

Paying tribute to the late administrator, the university said his passing had created a huge vacuum within the institution.

“His sudden demise is a profound loss to the University community. The entire University community mourns the passing of a distinguished colleague, dedicated administrator and valued member of the NOUN family,” the statement added.

The management also conveyed its sympathy to the deceased’s family and loved ones, praying for strength for everyone affected by the tragedy.

“At this period of grief, the University extends its deepest condolences to his immediate family, relatives, friends, colleagues and all those who mourn this monumental loss. We pray that the Almighty Allah grants the family and the entire University community the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

The university said arrangements for the burial would be announced after the family releases the necessary details.

It also prayed that Almighty Allah forgives the late bursar’s shortcomings, grants him Al-Jannah Firdaus, and gives his family, friends, colleagues and the entire university community the strength to cope with the loss.