Students Decry Insecurity As Gunmen Abduct 4 JOSTUM Students

Students of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi (JOSTUM), Benue State, have voiced their deep concerns over what they describe as negligence by the university management and security authorities following the abduction of four female students by gunmen on Tuesday night.

The incident, which has left the university community in shock, sparked outrage among students, who are demanding immediate action to improve security measures on campus and ensure the safety of all students. The abduction took place between 8 pm and 9 pm on Tuesday from the North Core Hostels on the university premises.

As of the time of reporting, many students have begun leaving the school due to fears of further attacks. The Student Union of the institution has strongly criticized the lack of security measures on campus, highlighting the absence of perimeter fencing as a significant vulnerability that has made the university an easy target for attacks.

Comrade Elum Shadrach, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Students’ Union Government, called on both the university management and government authorities—at both the state and federal levels—to take immediate and decisive action to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped students and address the growing insecurity on campus. He stated that the incident exposed significant security lapses that have placed students in grave danger.

“We condemn in the strongest terms the failure of the university management to provide adequate security, despite repeated calls and complaints from students regarding the worsening security situation on campus,” said Shadrach. “The continued negligence has now resulted in the kidnapping of our fellow students, leaving us vulnerable and in fear for our lives.”

He added, “At this moment, we urge all students to remain calm and vigilant. We understand the fear and frustration this situation has caused, and we sincerely apologize for the distress and trauma it has inflicted upon you. The Students’ Union stands in solidarity with you and will not relent in demanding justice and urgent intervention.”

The union is demanding a detailed and valid response from the university management within 48 hours regarding the security situation and the immediate steps being taken to prevent further attacks. Should the management fail to address the issue, they warned that decisive action would be taken in defense of students’ safety.

Comrade Bunde Raphael Shamnenge, a concerned student, said the abduction has created an overwhelming sense of vulnerability, fear, and uncertainty throughout the campus. He joined calls for a stay-at-home protest until the kidnapped students are safely returned and effective security measures are implemented to prevent similar incidents.

“The university administration and relevant authorities must be held accountable for providing a secure environment conducive to learning and growth. We demand a comprehensive investigation into this incident, increased security presence on campus, and support for the families of the kidnapped students,” Shamnenge stated.

As the situation unfolds, the university community remains on edge, with students and faculty alike calling for swift action to restore safety and security to the campus.