Relief washed over Kogi State and beyond on Sunday evening as news broke of the successful rescue of students abducted from Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, on Thursday evening. The abduction, which sent shockwaves through the state and sparked national outrage, has finally reached a positive conclusion, thanks to a combined effort by security operatives and local vigilantes.
According to a statement issued by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, a joint team successfully rescued “some” of the abducted students after a fierce shootout with the kidnappers. While the exact number of rescued students hasn’t been officially confirmed, reports suggest at least 14 students have been freed.
The Abduction that Shocked a Nation
The abduction unfolded on Thursday night when gunmen stormed the university campus, targeting students who were preparing for their first-semester examinations scheduled to begin on Monday. The gunmen, wielding AK-47 rifles, reportedly entered the campus through the bush, stormed into three lecture halls, and began shooting sporadically to create panic.
News of the abduction spread like wildfire, triggering panic and outrage among parents, students, and the general public. The Kogi State government came under immense pressure to secure the safe return of the students. Governor Yahaya Bello visited the university campus on Friday, assuring the distraught parents and students of his commitment to their safe return.
A Daring Rescue Operation
Thankfully, those assurances materialized over the weekend. Reports indicate that a combined security force, including the police, army, and local vigilantes, tracked down the kidnappers’ hideout. A fierce gun battle ensued, forcing the kidnappers to flee, abandoning their captives in the process.
The rescued students, understandably traumatized by the ordeal, are currently receiving medical attention and undergoing debriefing by security officials. The Kogi State government has promised to ensure their well-being and provide adequate support during this difficult time.
The Search Continues for Missing Students
However, the joy of this rescue is tempered by the fact that some students are still unaccounted for. One student, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity, revealed that there were at least 24 students captured by the gunmen. This raises concerns about the fate of the remaining students and the ongoing efforts to secure their safe return.
The Kogi State government has assured the public that the security forces are actively searching for the remaining students and that they will not relent until all are safely back home. The police are yet to issue a statement regarding the ongoing operation or the number of students still missing.
A Wake-Up Call for Improved Security Measures
The abduction of students from CUSTECH underscores the persistent security challenges plaguing parts of Nigeria, particularly in the North Central region. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of educational institutions and the need for more robust security measures to protect students and staff.
News of the rescue has been met with widespread jubilation on social media. Nigerians have expressed their relief and commended the security forces and vigilantes for their bravery and swift action. However, many are demanding a thorough investigation into the abduction and concrete steps to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
The Road Ahead
The coming days will be crucial for the Kogi State government and security agencies. Ensuring the safe return of the remaining students remains the top priority. Additionally, a thorough investigation is needed to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The abduction of the CUSTECH students has been a harrowing ordeal, but the successful rescue of some students offers a glimmer of hope. It highlights the importance of collaboration between security forces and local communities in tackling security challenges. As the search for the remaining students continues, Nigerians across the country pray for their safe return and a swift resolution to this traumatic event.
