Nigeria: Gunmen kidnaps 4 students in Katsina State

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

In a recent wave of violence in Katsina State, suspected armed bandits have abducted four students from Paris Quarters, located behind the Federal University, Dutsinma. 

The incident took place in the early hours of the morning, with the assailants swiftly capturing the victims. 

The abducted students have been identified as Wali Kayode, Fahad Muhammad, Emmanuel, and another individual whose identity is yet to be confirmed. Security forces were promptly alerted, but the bandits managed to evade capture.

Meanwhile, in a heartbreaking incident in Zamfara State, a 21-year-old student, Zarah Abubakar Shehu, lost her life after four months in captivity. Zarah, a 300-level student at the Federal University Gusau, was abducted alongside her siblings and held for ransom. Despite the ransom payment and negotiations, the kidnappers refused to release Zarah, citing additional demands for motorcycles and engine oil. Tragically, it was revealed that Zarah had passed away and was buried before the final negotiations.

The death of Zarah underscores the deep-rooted security challenges faced by communities in the region due to banditry and violence. The ongoing abduction incidents and tragic outcomes like Zarah’s passing highlight the urgent need for enhanced security measures and swift action to protect citizens from such atrocities.

These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the pervasive threat of insecurity in the region and the devastating impact it has on individuals and their families. The authorities are continuing efforts to track down the perpetrators and secure the safe return of abducted individuals, but the underlying issues of insecurity and violence remain pressing concerns for the communities affected.