Nine out of the 21 students who were kidnapped from the Federal University Gusau in Zamfara State have finally regained their freedom on Sunday after enduring a harrowing 178 days in captivity. These students were part of a larger group taken by terrorists from an off-campus hostel in Sabon Gida, adjacent to the university, during a raid in September 2023.

The release came about following protracted negotiations spanning approximately four months, according to one of the negotiators who spoke with the newsmen on condition of anonymity. The negotiation process involved intensive lobbying efforts aimed at ensuring the safety and eventual liberation of the abducted students.

While some victims were swiftly rescued by security forces shortly after the September incident, the majority remained in captivity, prompting a prolonged negotiation for their release. Interestingly, the terrorists reportedly claimed their actions were not driven by ransom demands, hinting at alternative motives behind the abduction, which are still under investigation.

The abduction at Federal University Gusau underscores the persistent security challenges in Zamfara State and the broader northwestern region of Nigeria. Educational institutions have increasingly become targets for terrorist and bandit activities, raising serious concerns about the safety of students and residents in the area.

The release of these nine students offers a ray of hope amidst the prevailing insecurity, bringing relief to their families and the university community. However, it also underscores the pressing need for bolstered security measures and strategic interventions to forestall future incidents and safeguard the lives of individuals in the region.

The negotiator disclosed that discussions with the terrorists commenced immediately after the students were taken, although initial progress was slow. The leader of the terror group, Ali Kawaje, expressed anger towards the federal and Zamfara State governments for the arrest of his brother, insisting on reconciliation.

Following Kawaje’s demise in an air raid by the Nigerian Air Force, negotiations recommenced under a new group commander who initially resisted the release of the students. However, with persistent efforts, including the involvement of Fulani leaders, a breakthrough was eventually achieved.

Contrary to expectations, the terrorists asserted from the outset that money should not be part of the negotiation process. Additionally, they sought the release of certain individuals held by security agents, rather than financial compensation or a prisoner swap.

The freed students were held in Babbar Doka forest near Kaduna State before being released late in the evening and handed over to the negotiators. They are now in the custody of security agencies, expected to be transferred to the state government later.

This development, while offering hope for the release of more captives, underscores the importance of continued efforts, including collaboration with national security agencies, to address the underlying security challenges and ensure lasting peace in the region.

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