After spending six days in captivity, the Benue State Police Command on Thursday announced the safe return of three students from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University (JOSTUM), formerly known as the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi.
The three female students were kidnapped on 25 February, 2025, while returning from a night study session on campus.
According to the police spokesperson, Anene Catherine, the school reported the incident on 26 February at about 21:34 hrs, prompting security forces to launch an investigation.
Catherine revealed that at approximately 21:34 hrs on 3 March, the three students (names withheld) were released and are currently receiving medical attention at Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi.
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As investigations continue, the Benue State Commissioner of Police (CP), Steve Yabanet, hailed the officers for their successful efforts in securing the students’ release.
The CP also expressed appreciation for the dedication of the IGP Intelligence Response Team from Abuja and other security agencies in the state.
“He has pledged his commitment to arresting the perpetrators of this heinous crime,” Catherine added.
To address security concerns, reports indicate that a day after the incident, the school management declared a one-week mid-semester break.
This was contained in an internal memo signed by the Registrar, Dr. John David, titled “Security Situation on Campus.”
Earlier, before their release, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, had called for their safe rescue.
