Kidnapped UNIJOS Graduate Regains Freedom After 11 Days In Captivity

According to Ireporter Online, a University of Jos graduate, John Azi, who was abducted on April 11 while travelling from Jos in Plateau State to Zaria in Kaduna State, has regained his freedom after spending 11 days in captivity.

The victim, who studied Early Childhood Education, was reportedly kidnapped during his journey, prompting his family into tense negotiations with his abductors who initially demanded ₦30 million before later reducing the ransom to ₦5 million alongside other unspecified demands.

His brother, Joseph, earlier revealed that the kidnappers repeatedly altered their demands, escalating the situation whenever information surfaced online.

Confirming his release, the victim’s eldest brother, Bulus Azi, stated that the family eventually paid a total of ₦10.3 million in multiple instalments due to shifting ransom demands by the abductors. He explained that the payments were made in stages, noting that increased publicity around the case often led to additional financial demands.

According to him, after an initial payment of ₦6.315 million, the kidnappers requested an additional ₦4 million before finally agreeing to release the victim. He added that although Azi has been freed, the family is yet to physically reunite with him as of Wednesday, noting that he was still en route after being transported from Zaria.

Bulus further disclosed that the abductors facilitated his release by arranging for a motorcycle rider to convey him out of captivity after the ransom was fully paid. He also confirmed that the victim received initial medical attention before arrangements were made for his return to Jos.

While acknowledging that security agencies were informed, the family said they had to independently handle negotiations to ensure his safe return, stressing that their priority was saving his life.

Bulus confirmed that Azi spent a total of 11 days in captivity, having been kidnapped on April 11, 2026.