Jalingo, Nigeria – October 22, 2025 – In a move highlighting the delicate balance between youthful creativity and cultural sensitivity, Endurance Achikare Igbagri, a student at Taraba State University (TSU), has issued a heartfelt public apology to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo for donning what many viewed as a disrespectful nun costume during the university’s recent Costume Day festivities.
The controversy erupted earlier this month when photos and videos from TSU’s Students’ Week celebrations surfaced online, showing Igbagri and several peers in outfits mimicking Catholic religious attire, including habits and clerical robes, altered in ways deemed provocative and irreverent by members of the Christian community. The event, part of a week-long series of themed days meant to foster fun and unity among students, quickly drew sharp criticism on social media, with users labeling the costumes as a mockery of sacred symbols and calling for accountability. This incident compounded ongoing tensions at the university, following the suspension of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) over separate misconduct allegations during the same week.
In a formal letter titled “Formal Apology for the Abuse and Misuse of Church Attire,” addressed to the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo, Reverend Fathers, CAN, the university chaplaincy, and the wider public, Igbagri expressed profound remorse. “I write this with a heart full of remorse and deep reflection regarding the pictures circulating online from the recent Costume Day held during the Taraba State University Students’ Week,” she stated. “I was one of the students whose outfit resembling that of a nun has caused pain, anger, and to many people, especially to the Christian community’s sensibilities.”
The 20-year-old Mass Communication student, who hails from a modest background in Gashaka Local Government Area, admitted her choice stemmed from “ignorance and a thoughtless desire to participate in the fun,” without intending to belittle religious figures. “I didn’t mean to offend anyone; it was a grave mistake on my part,” Igbagri elaborated in a follow-up video apology on social media, where she was seen visibly emotional after being summoned by the SUG. She extended her regrets to the university management and pledged to approach future actions with greater reverence for cultural and religious symbols. “I hope you and the faithful you serve can, in time, find it in your hearts to accept this apology. I am committed to learning from this grave mistake,” she concluded.
The apology has elicited mixed reactions across platforms like X, where posts praising Igbagri’s accountability garnered hundreds of likes and shares, with one user noting, “This is maturity—owning up and moving forward.” Others, however, urged stricter guidelines for campus events to prevent similar oversights, echoing broader conversations on respect in diverse Nigerian settings. CAN representatives have yet to issue an official response, but sources close to the diocese indicate the gesture is being viewed positively as a step toward reconciliation.
This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the fine line between celebration and sensitivity in multicultural environments, particularly amid TSU’s recent push for “academic and moral excellence” following the SUG suspension. As the university reviews its student activities, Igbagri’s story underscores the value of empathy and swift amends in bridging divides.
Follow updates on this developing story via local outlets or TSU’s official channels.