Female University Students Cry Out To FG: ‘Rescue Us from Kidnappers!

Female students across Nigeria are increasingly alarmed by the rising incidents of kidnappings at educational institutions. Recent abductions have intensified debates regarding the government’s role in safeguarding its citizens, particularly students……….READ MORE

Notably, in 2014, the abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok, Borno State, drew global attention. Despite efforts, many of these girls remain unaccounted for. Similarly, in 2018, 110 schoolgirls were kidnapped from Dapchi, Yobe State; while most were later released, some, like Leah Sharibu, are still held captive.

In recent years, tertiary institutions have also been targeted. In October 2023, five final-year female students from the Federal University, Dutsinma, Katsina State, were kidnapped from their private residence. Around the same period, 21 female students from the Federal University of Technology, Gusau, Zamfara State, were abducted from their hostels by bandits.

These incidents have disrupted the education of female students and led to widespread fear. Students are calling on the federal government to enhance security measures on campuses. Comrade Gundu Mimidoo Joy, a final-year student at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi (JOSTUM) and former spokesperson of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), described the kidnappings as a stark reminder of Nigeria’s deteriorating security infrastructure. She urged the government to take immediate action to ensure student safety.

Similarly, Happiness Christopher, a student at Federal Polytechnic, Kaduna, expressed concerns about residing in hostels due to the threat of kidnappings. She emphasized the need for authorities to create a secure environment conducive to female education.

The persistent kidnappings have heightened anxiety among students and parents alike. There is a pressing need for the government to implement effective security strategies to protect students and educational institutions nationwide.