The National Association of Nigerian Students has condemned the abduction of students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, Ogun State, describing the incident as a disturbing reflection of worsening insecurity around tertiary institutions, while calling on the Federal Government, the Ogun State Government and security agencies to secure the immediate release of the victims.
The association, in a statement issued on Friday by its President, Akinteye Babatunde, urged authorities to intensify rescue efforts and strengthen security around campuses nationwide, insisting that the safety of students must remain a top priority.
NANS said it received the news of the abduction with “deep sorrow and grave concern” following the attack on a private hostel along Paraga Road, Ipara, on Wednesday night.
The student body noted that the incident came barely days after an HND II student of D.S. Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, Itori, Ahmed Sekinat, was killed during a robbery attack, while several other students sustained injuries.
It described the back to back attacks as a dangerous trend that had heightened fear among students across Ogun State.
“As the apex leadership of Nigerian students, saddled with the responsibility of protecting the interests and welfare of students across the country and in the diaspora, we condemn, in its entirety, this reprehensible attack on the safety and security of Nigerian students,” the statement read.
“It is unconscionable that, within the space of a few days, two tertiary institutions in the same state have been exposed to a high level of insecurity and violent criminality, leaving the student community in a state of fear and mourning.”
The association maintained that no student should be forced to choose between education and personal safety.
“Education is a right, and no student should have to trade their safety for the pursuit of knowledge. We cannot stand idly by while our campuses become dens of kidnapping and all forms of criminality. The security of students is non negotiable,” Babatunde said.
NANS called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to deploy every available resource towards ensuring the safe and unconditional release of the abducted students.
It also urged governments at all levels to go beyond rescue operations by implementing sustainable security measures and investing in affordable on campus accommodation to reduce students’ exposure to risks associated with off campus hostels.
“The government must recognise the importance of investing heavily in the construction of affordable, campus based hostels for students, which would significantly reduce students’ exposure to the security risks associated with off campus accommodation,” the statement added.
The association pledged to continue engaging relevant authorities until the students regain their freedom and lasting security measures are put in place across tertiary institutions. It also expressed hope for the safe return of the victims while extending its thoughts and prayers to their families.
The abduction occurred on Wednesday night when suspected gunmen invaded a private hostel along Paraga Road, Ipara Remo, where students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic reside. Following the attack, the institution suspended Thursday’s examination as the Ogun State Police Command launched a joint rescue operation with other security agencies. While the Students’ Union Government said five students were abducted, the police stated that investigations were ongoing to determine the exact number of victims.
