Panic has gripped students of Joseph Sarwan Tarka University, Makurdi (JoSTM), after four female students were kidnapped by armed men on campus late Tuesday night.
The victims—identified as Emmanuella, Fola, Susan, and Ella—were reportedly ambushed around 8:30 p.m. near Zamfara Hostel while heading to a lecture hall to study. Eyewitnesses say the attackers, numbering five, surrounded the students, forcing them into the bush at gunpoint despite their attempts to escape.
A fellow student, speaking anonymously, described the chilling scene:
“They tried to run and screamed for help, but the gunmen cocked their weapons and ordered them out of the bush, threatening to kill them. They had no choice but to comply. Since then, no one knows where they have been taken.”
The news of the abduction spread rapidly across campus, sparking protests among students who expressed outrage over the security lapses.
“We cannot live in fear on our own campus! If we are not safe here, where else can we be safe? The school management must act fast to secure their release and ensure better security for everyone,” another student lamented.
The incident has left the university community in shock, with many questioning the safety of students, especially those who study at night.
As of the time of this report, the university authorities had yet to issue an official statement. However, the Benue State Police Command confirmed the incident, with spokesperson CSP Catherine Anene stating that investigations were underway.
This latest attack adds to growing concerns over insecurity in Nigerian institutions, leaving many students and parents anxious about their safety.
