The University of Jos (UNIJOS) has ordered an immediate suspension of all fundraising efforts for the rescue of an abducted graduate, citing concerns over possible exploitation by criminal elements.
The victim, John Azi, a graduate of Early Childhood Education, was reportedly abducted while travelling to Zaria in Kaduna State, in a case that has sparked widespread concern within Nigeria’s higher education community.
According to family sources, the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N30 million before reducing it to N5 million, alongside undisclosed conditions.
The situation gained national attention after a disturbing video allegedly released by the abductors surfaced online, showing the victim being assaulted.
As outrage spread across social media, individuals began sharing posts soliciting funds for his release, including bank account details linked to the victim’s family.
However, in an official circular, the university’s Dean of Student Affairs, Christopher Piwuna, confirmed that the institution had verified the incident and escalated it to security agencies.
“The attention of the Directorate of Student Affairs has been drawn to a disturbing video showing one of our students in the custody of abductors. This incident has been verified and duly reported to the University Administration and relevant authorities,” the statement read.
Piwuna explained that the decision to halt fundraising was necessary to prevent potential abuse of the situation by fraudsters or even the perpetrators themselves.
He warned that such efforts could inadvertently aid criminal activities, noting that kidnappers might monitor fundraising campaigns to manipulate outcomes or increase demands.
“At this critical time, we call on all students to remain calm… while appropriate security agencies work for his safe rescue,” he added.
The university also directed staff, student leaders, and members of the public to refrain from making unauthorised statements or social media posts about the incident, stressing that misinformation could complicate rescue efforts.
Students and stakeholders were instead encouraged to channel any useful information to the authorities or directly to the victim’s family.
The incident highlights a growing intersection between insecurity and higher education in Nigeria, where students and graduates increasingly face risks even beyond campus environments.
It also raises urgent questions about digital-era responses to crises, particularly how social media-driven fundraising—though well-intentioned—can expose victims and families to further risks.
As security agencies intensify efforts to secure the victim’s release, the UNIJOS management reiterated its commitment to student welfare while urging the public to prioritise caution over emotional reactions in handling sensitive cases.
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