Outrage as Bandits Demand ₦30m Ransom for Kidnapped UNIJOS Student

By Chisom Adaeze

A fresh wave of fear and anger has swept across Nigeria following the abduction of a student of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), identified as John Arum, by suspected bandits along the increasingly dangerous Kaduna–Jos highway.

According to reports, the student was kidnapped while travelling on the route, which has in recent years become a hotspot for armed attacks and abductions. His captors are now demanding a ransom of ₦30 million for his release.

Disturbing Footage Sparks Nationwide Outrage

The incident has taken a more disturbing turn after the kidnappers allegedly used the victim’s phone to record and circulate videos of him being tortured. The footage, which was reportedly shared in his class group chat, shows the visibly distressed student pleading for his life while being subjected to physical abuse.

The circulation of the video has intensified public outrage, with many Nigerians describing the act as inhumane and deeply troubling.

A fellow student, Ezikima Asunga, confirmed the incident in a widely shared message, identifying the victim as his coursemate. He also raised concerns that the student’s family may not yet be fully aware of the situation, as there has reportedly been no direct contact with them.

Growing Concerns Over Highway Insecurity

The Kaduna–Jos highway has long been flagged as a high-risk corridor, plagued by frequent kidnappings, bandit attacks, and armed robberies. This latest incident has once again drawn attention to the persistent security challenges facing travellers across the region.

Observers note that the brazenness of the kidnappers—who were reportedly unmasked in the videos—raises serious questions about enforcement, surveillance, and the ability of security agencies to track and apprehend perpetrators.

Public Calls for Urgent Action

The incident has triggered widespread condemnation on social media and beyond, with citizens calling on security agencies to act swiftly to rescue the victim and bring those responsible to justice.

Many Nigerians have described the situation as a national emergency, citing the increasing frequency and brutality of kidnappings across the country.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from relevant security authorities regarding the abduction or any ongoing rescue operation.

A Nation on Edge

The abduction of John Arum underscores the deepening insecurity crisis confronting Nigeria, particularly on major highways once considered vital links between regions.

With outrage mounting and pressure building on authorities, the coming days may prove critical—not only for the fate of the kidnapped student but also for public confidence in the country’s ability to ensure safety and security.