Bandits Kill NOUN Bursar in Zamfara

By Peter Emmanuel |

The Bursar of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Zamfara State branch, Nasiru Gusau Marafa, has been shot dead by bandits in Zamfara State.

Marafa was reportedly attacked while returning from Gusau, the state capital, on Sunday, September 6, 2026.

He was travelling along the Gusau road near Magazu when he was shot, according to the university.

The incident was confirmed by Oladipo Adetayo Ajayi, Registrar and Secretary to the University’s Governing Council.

Ajayi said the university received information about Marafa’s death after he was shot while travelling back from Gusau.

The killing adds to the growing concerns over insecurity and attacks on travellers along roads in Zamfara State.

Marafa Shot While Returning From Gusau

Marafa was reportedly returning from Gusau when he came under attack along the road near Magazu.

Details surrounding the attack remain limited, including the exact location where he was shot and how the attackers operated.

Reports on the incident identified the attackers as bandits, although the university’s statement did not provide details on the identities of the perpetrators.

The incident occurred amid continued attacks by armed groups in parts of Zamfara State, where travellers have faced risks along major roads.

Marafa’s death has also sparked reactions from colleagues and members of the university community who have mourned his loss.

His death was described as a sudden and painful loss to the institution and his family.

NOUN Confirms Death, Mourns Bursar

The university confirmed Marafa’s death in a statement issued by its Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Adetayo Ajayi.

NOUN described the death as sudden and untimely while expressing condolences to his family, colleagues and the wider university community.

Marafa had served the institution in various administrative capacities before he was appointed as bursar in September 2022.

As bursar, he was responsible for the financial administration of the university’s Zamfara State branch.

The university praised him as a dedicated administrator who contributed to the institution during his years of service.

NOUN said further information on burial arrangements would be provided by the deceased’s relatives.

Killing Adds to Zamfara’s Insecurity

The killing comes as Zamfara continues to face attacks by armed groups operating across several parts of the state.

Bandit attacks have affected residents, farmers and travellers, with roads and remote communities frequently exposed to security threats.

The Gusau road and other major routes in the state have previously been affected by incidents involving armed groups.

Such attacks have raised concerns about the safety of people travelling between communities and the state capital.

Marafa’s killing has therefore added to the growing list of victims of insecurity in the Northwest.

The incident has renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect residents and travellers and prevent further attacks in Zamfara State.