Two of the three students from Al-Qalam University in Katsina State who were taken by bandits in January 2024 have been released, according to reports.Â
The students, Habiba Shatali studying Political Science and Mariam Musa studying Microbiology, were kidnapped along with Yusuf Abdulazeez, who is studying Mathematics, while they were heading back to school from Minna in Niger State. They were taken near Kurfi, Dutsinma on January 14, 2024.
Habiba and Mariam were freed around 8:00 pm on Wednesday after spending a month in captivity. They have been reunited with their families.
However, Yusuf is still being held by the kidnappers as his family has not been able to gather the ransom demanded.
According to a source close to the family, a ransom of N10 million was paid to secure the release of Habiba and Mariam.
The kidnappers initially demanded N100 million for each student but later reduced it to N5 million each.
The state government and Commissioner of Police have not commented on the incident, maintaining silence since it occurred.
The parents of the victims have expressed frustration with the lack of engagement from the government in rescuing the students.
The students had gone home for the holiday break but decided to return to school together before being ambushed by gunmen believed to be bandits.
Despite efforts to reach the police spokesperson for comments, no response has been received.
The families of the victims have been relieved by the release of Habiba and Mariam but remain anxious for the safe return of Yusuf. They thank all those who have supported them during this difficult time.
