In a troubling incident, four students from the Federal University, Dutsinma (FUDMA), residing in the Paris Quarters area of Dutsinma, Katsina State, were abducted by armed bandits. The attack occurred around 2:20 a.m. on Sunday, as reported by a resident who wished to remain anonymous, speaking to Daily Trust. The assailants, armed with AK-47 rifles, stormed the area and kidnapped the students, prompting a swift response from security operatives who were mobilised to the scene following a distress call. However, by the time security arrived, the attackers had already escaped with their victims. TheCable reported on Monday that one of the students has been rescued.

Dutsinma is located in one of Katsina State’s frontline local government areas, which has been facing persistent security challenges, including banditry and cattle rustling, despite ongoing government and security interventions. The recent abduction highlights the increasing insecurity in the region, adding to a disturbing surge in student abductions across Nigeria in recent years.

As of the time of the initial report, neither the state police spokesman, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, nor government officials had reacted to the incident. However, sources indicated that security agents have launched a pursuit to rescue the abducted students unharmed.

Details of the Rescue

One of the abducted FUDMA students has been successfully rescued. Ground sources informed TheCable on Monday that ongoing efforts are in place to secure the release of the remaining three students. Fahad Muhammad, a 20-year-old 100-level computer science student, was rescued on Sunday following intensified search-and-rescue operations in the area. Local security sources confirmed that army operatives are sustaining efforts to locate and rescue the three other students still in captivity.

Identities of Remaining Abducted Students

The remaining students in captivity include Adewale Bolaji Ajayi, 23, from the department of computer science; Emmanuel Michael, 24, from the department of food management science; and Favour Michael, 22, also from the department of food management science. All of the abducted students are in their first year at the university. Security operatives are reportedly tracking the movements of the kidnappers as efforts to ensure the safe return of the remaining students continue.

Recent History of Student Abductions in Nigeria

Nigeria has been plagued by numerous abductions targeting students in recent years, reflecting a troubling trend of insecurity. Several incidents underscore the severity of the situation:

These incidents highlight the urgent need for increased security measures and government intervention to protect students and educational institutions from these attacks.