Kidnapped ABU students regain freedom after N9m ransom

Nine French language students of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria kidnapped last Sunday have been confirmed freed.

The nine students were on the way to Lagos for an immersion programme at the Nigerian French Language Village (NFLV) in Badagry when they came under attack by kidnappers along the Kaduna-Abuja highway.

Kaduna State Govermment confirmed two persons died during the incident and nine others rescued by security operatives.

ABU’s Director of Public Affairs, Malam Auwal Umar, confirmed release of the students on Sunday afternoon.

He said:”Yes, I can confirm to you that the students have been released. They were released yesterday (Saturday) night and most of them have already been reunited with their families.”

Though the university’s spokesman declined comment on ransom paid before the students were freed, the victims’ colleagues confirmed N1million was paid for each of the nine students.

Also, the campus blog of the University, ABU” Campus Connect @ABU_Campus, confirmed the students were released after ransom of N1million was paid per head.

-The Nation