Tension gripped the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTEC) in Osara, Okene, Kogi State, as bandits launched an attack on Thursday night, kidnapping several students amidst preparations for upcoming exams.
According to an eyewitness, the assailants descended on the university premises at approximately 9:00 p.m., catching students off guard as they studied for their impending examinations.
It was learnt that the bandits infiltrated the campus through the surrounding bush and stormed three lecture halls, unleashing chaos by firing gunshots into the air. As panic spread, students sought refuge, fleeing in different directions to evade the attackers.
Although security personnel swiftly responded, engaging the bandits in a confrontation, the assailants managed to seize a number of students before the situation could be fully contained.
Fortunately, their advance was halted before they could extend their reach beyond the initial three lecture halls.
It was further learnt that the abducted students were gearing up for their first-semester exams, scheduled to commence on Monday, May 13, when the tragic incident occurred.
Speaking anonymously, a student recounted the harrowing experience of seeking shelter in the nearby bush for over an hour until the area fell silent, allowing them to cautiously emerge from hiding.
When contacted for comment, Abdulraman Asipita, CUSTEC’s Vice Chancellor, acknowledged the incident but refrained from disclosing specific details regarding the number of abducted students.
He assured the public that the university authorities were actively addressing the situation.
Efforts to reach Bethrand Onuoha, the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, and Jerry Omodara, the State Security Adviser, proved unsuccessful as calls to their respective lines went unanswered.
The community awaits further updates as investigations into the brazen attack unfold.
