Federal University of Lafia Says Security Efforts Have Reduced Kidnapping Around Student Areas

(Federal University of Lafia. Photo by Punch News)

The management of the Federal University of Lafia in Nasarawa State says it has made big gains in the fight against kidnapping, cultism and other crimes in the Mararaba and Akunza communities, where thousands of its students live.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Mohammed Isa Kida said this on Monday while speaking to journalists at the university conference hall in Lafia.

He said the progress came from steady teamwork with security agencies in the state, including the Police, DSS, Civil Defence and the military.

The school also brought in about 200 volunteer hunters and vigilantes to help with security and pass on intelligence so the professional agencies can act quickly.

Kida asked the media to join the fight by exposing those behind kidnapping and cultism.

He said journalists play a key role in spreading information.

He warned that the effects can be terrible, giving the example of a student kidnapped while writing exams with a ransom demand that neither parents nor the university can pay.

He said protecting students and staff is a top priority and that such crimes will not be allowed under his watch.

He said he has met with almost all the communities where students live.

According to him, the university has over 150 vigilantes on its payroll, nearly 50 hunters and other volunteers, adding up to over 200 people who get stipends.

He admitted the money is not enough but said they are doing great work for the school.