The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the abduction of students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, Ogun State, describing the incident as a troubling indication of rising insecurity around tertiary institutions.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its President, Akinteye Babatunde, the association called on the Federal Government, the Ogun State Government, and security agencies to ensure the immediate rescue of the abducted students and strengthen security measures across campuses nationwide.
NANS said it received the news of the kidnapping with “deep sorrow and grave concern,” noting that the students were taken after gunmen attacked a private hostel along Paraga Road in Ipara on Wednesday night.
The association also referenced a recent incident at D.S. Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, Itori, where an HND II student, Ahmed Sekinat, was killed during a robbery attack, with several others injured.
According to NANS, the back-to-back incidents have heightened fear among students across Ogun State.
“It is unacceptable that within a few days, two tertiary institutions in the same state have witnessed such levels of insecurity and violent criminal activity, leaving students in fear and mourning,” the statement said.
The student body stressed that no one should have to risk their life in pursuit of education.
“Education is a right, and students must not be forced to trade their safety for it. The security of students is non-negotiable,” it added.
NANS urged security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigerian Army, to deploy all necessary resources to secure the safe and unconditional release of the abducted students.
Beyond rescue efforts, the association emphasized the need for long-term solutions to prevent similar incidents, insisting that repeated assurances are no longer enough.
It also called on authorities to invest in affordable on-campus accommodation to reduce students’ exposure to risks associated with off-campus housing.
“The government must prioritise the construction of safe and affordable hostels within campuses to minimise students’ vulnerability,” the statement said.
NANS pledged to continue engaging relevant authorities until the students are safely returned and lasting security measures are implemented.
“Our thoughts are with the abducted students and their families, and we remain hopeful for their safe return,” the statement added.
Reports indicate that the institution has suspended examinations following the attack, while security agencies have launched a joint rescue operation. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact number of victims.
