NANS threatens protest, gives FG 48-hour ultimatum over UNIJOS student abduction

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government and the Plateau State Government over the abduction of a University of Jos (UNIJOS) student, John Arum Azi, warning of nationwide protests if urgent action is not taken.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National President, Olushola Oladoja, the student body voiced concern over the occurrence, calling it a manifestation of the country’s deteriorating security.

Chronicle NG reports that Arum was kidnapped while traveling to Kaduna, and unsettling evidence of his abduction has already circulated in the public.

“The National Association of Nigerian Students expresses its utmost grief, outrage, and condemnation over the abduction of one of our own, John Arum, a student of the University of Jos, who was kidnapped while travelling to Kaduna,” the statement read.

It also stated that visuals from captivity showed “duress and inhumane conditions, brutality, and torture,” while the abductors have reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦30 million.

The union described the development as a troubling indicator of the country’s worsening security situation, particularly for students.

“The horrifying incident that has happened to John is yet another grim reminder of the steady and unacceptable decline in the safety and security of Nigerian citizens, especially students, who continue to be vulnerable targets of criminal elements across the country,” it stated.

Furthermore, NANS criticized what it called the slow and inadequate response of security agencies and government authorities, warning that inaction could deepen public frustration.

“The statement added that silence, delay, or half-measures in moments requiring decisive and brutal actions only embolden perpetrators and deepen public despair.”

The group demanded the rapid deployment of intelligence and security resources to guarantee Arum’s release, as well as frequent public updates on the rescue effort.

It also asked for more comprehensive steps to combat kidnapping and violent crimes across the country.

“As an organization, our demands are bold and very clear, and failure to meet these demands within the stipulated timeframe will compel Nigerian students… to embark on a nationwide solidarity protest and total shutdown of socio-economic and academic activities across the country,” it warned.

NANS reaffirmed its stance, saying it would not keep silent while students were abducted and violently assaulted.

“Under my leadership, NANS will not remain silent or stand idly while our colleagues are hunted, abducted, and brutalized. It is unacceptable and must not continue. The time for decisive action is now,” Oladoja said.