“I felt relieved earning a degree after 10 years at UNIJOS,” — Ex-student activist, Jango

Jonathan Ogboffa, also known as Jango, recently graduated from Jos University Plateau State, after spending 10 years in the institution. He has shared his experience with a punch reporter.

Please briefly tell us about yourself.

My name is Jonathan Ogboffa. I am from Kogi State.

There were reports online that you graduated from the Department of History/Education from the University of Jos, Plateau State, after 13 years. How true is that?

I undertook two different programmes before I got admitted into the degree programme. I did a diploma in Mass Communication and English Education. I got admission into the University of Jos in 2016, but because of the crisis, I was delayed and that was why I graduated this year.

What crisis was that?

There was a crisis in Jos.

Were you directly involved in the crisis or caught up indirectly?

The shutting down of the school affected me.

Can you tell us about your first diploma programme? Where did you undergo the programme?

It was at the old campus of UNIJOS. It was for two years, between 2011 to 2013/2014.

Did you have any challenges while studying for the diploma?

No issue. I studied for another diploma in Health Education in the same school.

Why did you choose to study for another diploma instead of applying for a degree programme with your first diploma?

It was because I didn’t get admission on time. I decided to get another diploma.

How did you fund your education at the university?

I was working, so there was no challenge.

Were you a student union leader?

I was a leader of everybody, both in the National Association of Nigerian Students and the Students Union Government.

Were you a member of the SUG at UNIJOS?

No.

Why were you called ‘senior comrade’?

It is because I have paid my dues and delivered a lot of people.

What does that mean?

It means I have served.

As an activist, did you have any issues with lecturers?

No. Everybody likes Jango. There was no challenge.

Is it true some lecturers did not allow you graduate at the expected time?

It is a lie.

Where did you reside while you were studying?

I resided off-campus and in the (school) hostel – village hostel.

How popular were you there?

I was very popular.

Did you spend the entire 13 years at the village hostel?

No. I only spent 10 years at the University of Jos. I didn’t spend the entire years there.

How do you feel graduating after a long time?

I feel fine and relieved; there is no more stress.

How did you feel when a photo of you went viral?

I was excited.

What is the class of your degree?

I don’t know yet.

How do your parents feel about your achievement?

They are happy.

What is your plan, having graduated?

I will study for a master’s degree and after that, become a lecturer. That is what I like.

What do you like about it? Do you love teaching or do you just want to remain in the university community?

I like it because I want to teach in a classroom.