The management of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) has suspended all fundraising activities for the rescue of its former student, John Azi, who was abducted by unknown gunmen on Saturday.

Azi, a graduate of Early Childhood Education, was kidnapped while travelling to Kaduna State for work.

Family sources had told newsmen on Tuesday that the abductors initially demanded N30 million ransom, which was later reduced to N5 million, with additional undisclosed conditions.

The incident triggered widespread outrage on social media following the circulation of a video allegedly released by the kidnappers, showing the victim being assaulted.

In a circular issued on Tuesday, the Dean of Student Affairs, Christopher Piwuna, confirmed that the university had verified the incident and promptly reported it to the relevant security authorities.

“The attention of the Directorate of Student Affairs has been drawn to a disturbing video showing one of our students in the custody of abductors.

This incident has been verified and duly reported to the University Administration and relevant authorities,” the circular stated.

Piwuna assured that the university is collaborating closely with security agencies to secure the safe rescue of the victim.

“At this critical time, we call on all students to remain calm and keep the affected student in their thoughts and prayers while appropriate security agencies work for his safe rescue,” he added. (The Guardian)