UNIJOS Suspends Fundraising for Abducted Ex-Student Amid Exploitation Fears
The management of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) has officially suspended all fundraising activities aimed at securing the rescue of John Azi, a former student who was abducted by unknown gunmen on Saturday. This decision comes in response to growing concerns over potential exploitation and the need for coordinated security efforts.
Details of the Abduction and Ransom Demands
John Azi, a graduate of Early Childhood Education, was kidnapped while traveling to Kaduna State for work. Family sources revealed on Tuesday that the abductors initially demanded a ransom of N30 million, which was later reduced to N5 million, along with additional undisclosed conditions. The incident has sparked widespread outrage across social media platforms, particularly after a video allegedly released by the kidnappers circulated online, showing the victim being assaulted.
University's Response and Security Collaboration
In a circular issued on Tuesday, the Dean of Student Affairs, Christopher Piwuna, confirmed that the university had verified the incident and promptly reported it to the relevant security authorities. He stated, "The attention of the Directorate of Student Affairs has been drawn to a disturbing video showing one of our students in the custody of abductors. This incident has been verified and duly reported to the University Administration and relevant authorities." Piwuna emphasized that the university is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the victim.
Call for Calm and Ongoing Efforts
Piwuna further urged the student community to remain calm and keep the affected individual in their thoughts and prayers. He added, "At this critical time, we call on all students to remain calm and keep the affected student in their thoughts and prayers while appropriate security agencies work for his safe rescue." The suspension of fundraising activities is intended to prevent any misuse of funds and to support a focused, security-led approach to the situation.
