Tragedy Strikes: National Open University Bursar Gunned Down in Zamfara

Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa, the University Bursar of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), was shot dead in Zamfara State on Sunday, September 6, 2026. Reports indicate that Marafa was reportedly shot while returning from Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.

His death was confirmed by Oladipo Ajayi, the university’s Registrar and Secretary to the Governing Council, in a statement released on Sunday. The official notice conveyed the university's profound regret, announcing “the sudden and untimely passing of the University Bursar, Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa.” The university reiterated that Marafa was reportedly shot while returning from Gusau, though further details on the circumstances surrounding the shooting, the exact location of the incident, or the identity of the perpetrators were not disclosed.

Mallam Nasiru Gusau Marafa had been appointed Bursar of NOUN on September 17, 2022, for a five-year tenure that was scheduled to conclude in September 2027. Throughout his career, Marafa was lauded as a dedicated and committed administrator who served the university meritoriously and held several positions of responsibility before rising to the bursar role.

The university community has expressed deep sorrow over his passing. The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, Senate, Staff, and Students of NOUN, extended heartfelt condolences to Marafa’s immediate family, relatives, friends, colleagues, and the wider university community. He was described as a “distinguished colleague, dedicated administrator and valued member of the NOUN family.” The institution prayed for strength for all those mourning his loss.

NOUN has stated that further details concerning the burial arrangements will be communicated once they are released by the deceased's family.