By Faith Chondol
Relief has finally come for the family of John Arum Azi, a University of Jos (UNIJOS) student who was abducted while travelling between Plateau and Kaduna States, as he has been released after spending 10 harrowing days in captivity.
Azi, a student of Early Childhood Education, was reportedly kidnapped while en route from Jos to Zaria—an incident that quickly drew national attention following the circulation of a disturbing video showing him being assaulted by his captors. In the footage, the abductors issued a chilling ultimatum, initially demanding ₦30 million and threatening to kill him if their demands were not met.
Faced with mounting fear and urgency, the family entered into negotiations with the kidnappers. The ransom was eventually reduced to ₦6 million, an amount raised through contributions from concerned Nigerians, highlighting a wave of public sympathy and solidarity.
However, even after receiving the payment, the abductors allegedly escalated their demands, insisting on an additional ₦4 million—further prolonging the ordeal and deepening the family’s distress.
Despite the uncertainty, hope prevailed. On Wednesday, the family confirmed Azi’s release through a video shared on social media, capturing an emotional reunion with his loved ones.
While his return has been met with widespread relief, the incident has once again spotlighted the growing insecurity along major travel routes in Nigeria, raising urgent questions about the safety of citizens and the persistent threat of kidnapping for ransom.
As of the time of filling this report authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the case.
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