Unknown Gunmen Kidnap Four Female University Students in Benue State

Four female students of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, were abducted by unidentified gunmen on the evening of February 25, 2025. The incident occurred around 8:00 pm between the Zamfara Hostel and Ring Road in the North Core area of the university.

The victims, all first-year students, were  on their way to a night study session when they were taken. The circumstances of the abduction remain unclear, but the attack has raised fears among students and staff.

In response, the university administration has declared a one-week mid-semester break, requiring students to vacate campus immediately. The Benue State Police Command confirmed the kidnapping, with spokesperson CSP Sewuese Anene stating that investigations are underway.

Outraged by the incident, students staged protests, demanding improved security and swift action to rescue their peers. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has also called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to intervene urgently.

This abduction adds to a growing trend of attacks on educational institutions in Nigeria. In August 2024, at least 20 medical students were kidnapped in Benue State while traveling to a convention. The latest incident has intensified calls for enhanced security in schools and universities across the country.