The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the abduction of John Arum (also referred to as John Arum Azi), a student/fresh graduate of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), describing the incident as another disturbing example of the worsening insecurity plaguing Nigeria’s educational institutions and highways.
According to reports, Arum was kidnapped while travelling along the Jos-Kaduna route in a commercial vehicle, alongside six other passengers. A distressing video circulating on social media shows the victim in captivity, visibly tortured and pleading for help, with his abductors demanding a ransom of ₦30 million for his release. The footage, allegedly shared via the victim’s phone in his class WhatsApp group, has sparked widespread outrage among students and the general public.
In a strongly worded statement, NANS National President Olushola Oladoja expressed deep grief and outrage, noting that the abduction reflects the continuous failure of relevant authorities to secure Nigerian roads and protect citizens, particularly students who frequently travel for academic and personal reasons.
“We are utterly dismayed by this barbaric act. John Arum is one of our own, and we will not sit idly by while our members are subjected to such inhuman treatment. The demand for an outrageous ₦30 million ransom, coupled with evident signs of torture, is unacceptable,” the statement read.
NANS has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government and the Plateau State Government to ensure the safe and immediate rescue of Arum without any payment of ransom. The association warned that failure to act swiftly would trigger nationwide student protests and the shutdown of socio-economic and academic activities across the country.
The student body further called on security agencies to intensify efforts in rescuing all victims of kidnapping, particularly those on the notorious Jos-Kaduna highway, which has become a hotspot for such incidents. NANS urged the government to adopt more proactive and intelligence-driven strategies to combat banditry and kidnapping, rather than reactive measures after incidents occur.
“We demand that the Federal Government and security operatives deploy all necessary resources to locate and free John Arum and other victims held in similar circumstances. Enough is enough; the lives of Nigerian students must be prioritized,” Oladoja added.
NANS also appealed to the University of Jos management, alumni, parents, and the general public to remain calm while supporting efforts toward the victim’s safe return. The association reiterated its commitment to advocating for the safety and welfare of all Nigerian students.