Special Adviser to Kogi State Governor on Youth and Student Matters, Comrade Oladele Nihi, has appealed to students of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) to have faith in the Governor’s commitment to ensure safe return of all students abducted during a recent attack in the university.
In a statement issued in Lokoja on Friday, Nihi admonished the students to shun pressures to hit the streets in protest.
He assured them of Governor’s Ododo relentless effort to bring all abducted students back, safe and sound.
“As the Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth and Student Matters, I understand the concern and anxiety of the students of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) regarding the abduction of their colleagues.
“The purported voice note circulating in the social media, claiming that the kidnappers are demanding a ransom of 200 Million Naira within 24 hours for the release of one Ms. Fatima, has understandably heightened tensions.
“However, I appeal to the students not to take to the streets in protest. While I understand their desire to demand action, I assure them that the Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and the security agencies in the state are working tirelessly to ensure the rescue of the remaining students.
“Governor Ododo values the lives of all students and humans in general and will not rest until the students are rescued and reunited with their families. I want to assure the students and their families that everything possible is being done to secure their release.
“While no amount of money is too much to pay for a life, we must be mindful of the long-term consequences of our actions. Payment of ransom to kidnappers will only embolden and enrich their pockets, unleashing more terror on our people. Let us work together to find a solution that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all,” he said.
Nihi urged the students to remain calm and have faith in the efforts of the government and security agencies.