Two 400‑level scholars from [Al‑Ansar University](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al‑Ansar_University) in Maiduguri, Borno State, lost their lives in a vehicular collision on the Bama‑Maiduguri road on Sunday, 11 October 2026, while returning from a visit to the Shehu of Bama, Dr. Umar Kyari Umar El‑Kanemi.
The victims were identified as Ahmad Abdul Karim Maaji and Habib Bakura Alkali Habib. Both were on a university‑approved trip that concluded with a meeting at the traditional ruler’s palace.
In a statement released on Monday, 12 October, the university’s Vice‑Chancellor, Professor Fanna Inna Abdulrahman, conveyed profound grief on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, management, staff and students. He said, "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, relatives, friends and classmates and pray that Almighty Allah grants them patience and strength."
Key facts:
- Date of accident: 11 October 2026.
- Location: Bama‑Maiduguri road, Borno State.
- Victims: Ahmad Abdul Karim Maaji and Habib Bakura Alkali Habib, both final‑year students.
- The incident occurred after the group visited the Shehu of Bama.
- The university’s official response highlighted prayers for the departed and support for their families.
**What did the university say?**
The statement emphasized that the loss of these promising youths is a tragedy for their families and the entire academic community. It invoked Qur’an 2:156, "Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we will return," seeking divine comfort for the grieving relatives.
The university pledged to continue offering assistance to the families and to honour the memory of the two students within the campus community.