Tension Mounts as Bandits Demand Release of Colleagues in Exchange for Abducted FUG Students
The parents of the abducted students of the Federal University Gusau (FUG) in Zamfara State have urged the Nigerian government to take swift action to rescue their children. They have called for negotiations with the bandits who abducted the students, citing previous instances where such negotiations were successful, particularly during the Boko Haram insurgency in the North East.
The parents’ plea comes after the bandits threatened to kill some of the female students if their demands were not met. Recent developments indicate that the bandits have chosen a new leader and are demanding the release of their colleagues who are in custody as a condition for sparing the lives of the abducted students.
Efforts to secure the students’ release have been ongoing, with discussions involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Defence Headquarters, and the Department of State Service (DSS). However, the situation remains tense, with the bandits insisting on their demands.
Concerns have been raised about the safety and well-being of the abducted students, especially as the bandits have threatened to take drastic measures if their demands are not met. Parents of the abducted students have expressed deep distress over the situation and have called on the government to reconsider its approach, emphasizing the need to prioritize the safe return of the students.
In response to the situation, security agencies have assured the public that they are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of all citizens, including the abducted students. The Department of State Services (DSS) has reaffirmed its commitment to employing lawful means to secure the release of the students.
The recent developments have raised alarm among stakeholders, with calls for both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to address the crisis in the North West region, which has seen a rise in banditry and related security challenges.
Source: Daily Trust
