Kaduna, NIGERIA – A student of the University of Jos, identified as John Arum, has been abducted by armed bandits while traveling along the notorious Kaduna–Jos highway. The victim, who hails from Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, was intercepted by the gunmen during his journey.
The kidnappers have subjected the student to severe physical abuse, recording the torture using his own mobile phone. This distressing footage was reportedly sent to a school WhatsApp group chat to amplify their ₦30 million ransom demand and create panic among his peers and family.
The viral video, monitored by Okay News, shows the bandits heavily beating the victim while he pleads for help. The graphic nature of the video has sparked outrage across social media platforms, with fellow students and concerned citizens calling for immediate intervention from security agencies.
There are currently fears that the victim’s family may not have been officially contacted yet, as the kidnappers have primarily used the victim’s digital circles to broadcast their demands.
This incident highlights the deteriorating security situation along major transport routes in the North-Central region, where commuters face constant threats from criminal networks. While the identity of the attackers has been linked by some reports to specific groups, the primary focus of the public outcry remains on the government’s perceived inability to secure vital highways.
As of Monday evening, April 13, 2026, neither the Kaduna nor Plateau State Police Commands have issued an official statement regarding the abduction. Students of the University of Jos are currently mobilizing to raise awareness, urging authorities to track the kidnappers and ensure John Arum’s safe release before the situation escalates further.
