In a heart-wrenching turn of events, two more of the 21 students abducted by terrorists last September at the Federal University Gusau in Zamfara State, North-west Nigeria, have been released. These brave individuals spent over 200 days in captivity, enduring unimaginable hardships at the hands of their captors.
The released students were finally handed over to security agents in Abuja, marking a glimmer of hope in this harrowing ordeal. Just last month, nine female students were freed after 178 days in captivity, bringing some relief to their families and loved ones.
One parent, overcome with emotion, confirmed the release of her daughter to DW Hausa Service, recounting the moment her daughter called to inform her of her impending return to Gusau, the state capital. The joy and relief felt by these families are immeasurable, as they anxiously await the safe return of all the abducted students.
The students were taken from their off-campus hostel in Sabon Gida, a community near the university campus, in a brazen act of violence that shook the nation. While some victims were rescued shortly after the abduction, the fate of the remaining students remains uncertain. It is believed that the terrorists are releasing the captives gradually, possibly after receiving ransoms.
The Zamfara State government has yet to comment on the latest release, leaving many questions unanswered. The spokesperson for the Federal University, Gusau, Umar Usman, expressed his lack of information on the matter, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in such critical situations.
As the world watches with bated breath, hoping for the safe return of all the abducted students, it is imperative that we stand in solidarity with the victims and their families. The resilience and courage shown by these students in the face of adversity serve as a reminder of the strength of the human spirit. Let us continue to demand justice and peace for all those affected by this senseless act of violence.