By Hadiza Mohammed, Northern Operation
The Nasarawa State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of three students of the Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) from their off-campus hostel along Awe Road, near the institution’s temporary campus in Akunza, Lafia.
Police said the attack occurred on Tuesday night after armed men stormed the students’ residence, knocked on the door and forced their way into the building before whisking the victims away.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, disclosed that the command received a distress call at about 9:21 p.m.
“What happened was that the students were at home when the gunmen arrived. They knocked on the door and gained entry,” Nansel said.
He explained that the hostel is situated in a remote area behind a high-tension electricity line and close to a bush path leading to Awe town, making it vulnerable to criminal attacks.
“That place is close to the bush. There is a gate there; whether you push it with your foot or your hand, it will open. It’s not a place for anyone to live. People are looking for cheap accommodation. Instead of living alone, since it’s only a temporary stay, pool your resources together or contribute to rent a single house,” he advised.
Nansel, however, revealed that security operatives had successfully rescued one of the abducted students, while efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the remaining two victims.
According to him, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical units and patrol teams to the area to intensify search-and-rescue operations.
The police said operatives are combing the surrounding forests and adjoining communities as part of a coordinated manhunt aimed at tracking down the kidnappers and rescuing the remaining students unharmed.
The latest incident has heightened concerns over the safety of students residing in off-campus accommodation, particularly in isolated areas around the university. Authorities have urged students to avoid secluded residences and prioritise safer accommodation while security operations continue.
