• Management confirms incident, announces mid-semester break
• HURIWA tasks security agents on rescue of victims

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of students from the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University (JoSTUM).The incident, which occurred at the university campus on Tuesday night, coincided with the unveiling of a new uniform for the school’s internal security personnel earlier that same day, with fanfare, by the Vice Chancellor, Prof Isaac Itodo.

Spokesperson for the police command, SP Catherine Anene, who confirmed the development, stated that the number of victims was two. She also mentioned that an “investigation is ongoing,” while efforts are underway to rescue the victims.

An eyewitness and student of the university, who identified herself as Nguemo, told The Guardian that the group was on its way to class when about seven gunmen suddenly emerged and abducted the girls, while the others managed to escape.

However, the management of the institution confirmed the abduction of three students. In a circular signed by the university’s Registrar, Dr John David, it was revealed that the students were abducted around 8:00 p.m. between Zamfara Hostel and Ring Road in the North Core of the university.

David stated that the government and security agencies have been duly informed about the unfortunate incident. He further explained that following a series of consultative meetings with security agencies and stakeholders, the university management reached several resolutions.

“The management urges all staff, students, and the general public to remain calm, as security agencies are working tirelessly to secure the release of the abducted students,” the registrar said.

He also announced the indefinite postponement of the inaugural lecture scheduled for yesterday. In a show of solidarity with the affected students and their families, the university granted a one-week mid-semester break to all students to allow adequate time to address security concerns on campus. As a result, all students were required to vacate their hostels by 4:00 p.m. yesterday.

Meanwhile, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) condemned the heinous armed kidnapping of the students. The group affirmed that this appalling act of violence not only jeopardises the safety of educational institutions but also instils deep fear in the hearts of students and their families.

Expressing solidarity with the affected families and the university community, the national coordinator of the group, Emmanuel Onwubiko, called on security agencies to immediately intensify efforts to locate and rescue the abducted students.

According to him, law enforcement agencies must act swiftly and decisively to confront the wave of insecurity that continues to plague society. He also urged the Benue State government to take radical action against the scourge of kidnapping by implementing stringent laws that make kidnapping offences punishable by the death sentence.

He added: “While this measure is severe, it may serve as a powerful deterrent against individuals and groups who engage in these criminal activities. The government must recognise that comprehensive enforcement of laws against kidnapping is essential because the safety of every citizen is non-negotiable. By enforcing severe penalties for kidnapping, the government affirms its commitment to protecting the rights and lives of its citizens, thereby reinforcing the idea that life is sacred and must be defended at all costs.”