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The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has confirmed the death of its Bursar, Mallam Nasiru Marafa, who was reportedly shot dead while returning from Gusau, Zamfara State.
The university announced the incident in a statement on Sunday signed by its Registrar and Secretary to Council, Oladipo Ajayi.
According to the statement, Marafa was attacked and killed while travelling back from Gusau. However, the institution did not disclose the exact location of the attack or the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Describing the incident as a painful loss, NOUN said the bursar was a dedicated administrator who served the university with commitment in various capacities before his appointment as Bursar in September 2026.
The university noted that Marafa carried out his duties with a strong sense of responsibility and contributed significantly to the institution's growth.
"The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, Senate, Staff and Students of the National Open University of Nigeria, regrets to announce the sudden and untimely passing of the University Bursar, Mallam Nasiru Marafa," the statement said.
NOUN added that his death had thrown the university community into mourning, describing him as a distinguished colleague and valued member of the institution.
The university extended its condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, stating that details of his burial would be announced after consultations with the family.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not released further information on the attack or identified those responsible for the killing.
