JOSTUM Closes Indefinitely After Abduction of 3 Female Students
Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi (JOSTUM) has announced the indefinite closure of the institution, eight days after the abduction of three female students who are still being held captive.
The situation remains tense, with the students’ captors yet to make any formal demands for their release, though sources suggest the kidnappers have requested a ransom of N40 million.
In a statement, JOSTUM’s Registrar, Dr. John David, said that following a meeting of the university’s Committee of Deans and Directors on Friday, February 28, 2025, a decision was made to vacate the campus. The university will remain closed until further notice, pending the safe return of the abducted students and assurances regarding the safety of the university community.
Dr. David emphasized that the closure includes the evacuation of all students from both the campus and hostels. He urged students and staff to remain calm and hopeful as security agencies continue their efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted students.
This closure follows an earlier one-week break announced by the university after the abduction. On February 25, 2025, at around 8:00 p.m., armed assailants stormed the campus and kidnapped three female students. The university had granted the break to address security concerns.
Attempts to obtain updates from the police regarding the ongoing investigation have been unsuccessful, as police spokesperson Catherine Anene has not responded to calls or text messages.
