Fresh anxiety has gripped the academic community following the emergence of a video on social media featuring a student from the University of Jos, John Arum Azi, who is currently being held captive. The footage shows the young man kneeling while an armed individual stands close by. In the recording, the victim explained his ordeal, stating clearly that he was travelling to Kaduna when he was seized alongside six others.

Sources close to the matter revealed that the student resides in Jos and was on his way to Kaduna for a repair job when the incident occurred. The kidnappers allegedly utilised the victim's phone to broadcast the plea for help within a school WhatsApp group. In his message, he disclosed that the abductors are asking for a ransom of ₦30 million to secure their freedom. He therefore called on members of the public to assist him.

This disturbing event has sparked renewed concerns regarding the safety of students across the nation. It comes amid reports indicating a worrying rise in abduction cases affecting learners in various parts of the country.

Currently, the management of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) has halted all fundraising activities for John Azi.