Kidnapped UNIJOS Student Regains Freedom After 10 Days as Family Pays N6m Ransom

Abducted undergraduate released following negotiations and public support.

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By Labarana Desmond | Jos, Nigeria

A student of the University of Jos, University of Jos, has regained freedom after spending 10 days in captivity. The victim, identified as John Arum Azi, was released after his family reportedly paid a ransom of N6 million.

Azi, an undergraduate in early childhood education, was abducted while travelling from Jos, Plateau State, to Zaria in Kaduna State.

His abduction drew national attention after a video circulated online showing him being assaulted by his captors, who initially demanded a ransom of N30 million and issued threats to kill him.

Following negotiations, the ransom was reduced to N6 million. The funds were reportedly raised through contributions from family members and concerned Nigerians.

Despite receiving the payment, the abductors allegedly demanded an additional N4 million before eventually releasing the student.

Confirmation of his release came on Wednesday through a video shared by his family, showing him reunited with relatives after the ordeal.

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Authorities have not issued an official statement on the circumstances surrounding his release at the time of filing this report.

Public Outcry Amplified Case
The case gained traction on social media after the circulation of a video showing the victim being brutalised.

The footage intensified public concern and triggered calls for urgent intervention.

Ransom Negotiation Highlights Security Concerns
The reduction of ransom from N30 million to N6 million underscores the role of negotiation in kidnapping cases, even as security challenges persist along inter-state travel routes.

The incident adds to growing concerns over safety in parts of Plateau and Kaduna corridors.

The incident highlights the persistent threat of kidnapping in Nigeria and the reliance on ransom payments for victim release. It raises questions about security effectiveness, law enforcement response, and the financial burden placed on families and communities.