A University of Jos student, John Azi, who was abducted along the Jos–Kaduna highway nearly two weeks ago, has reportedly regained his freedom.
His release comes after days of tension, ransom negotiations, and conflicting reports about his condition while in captivity.
Abduction Along High-Risk Highway
John was reportedly kidnapped while travelling from Plateau State to Kaduna State alongside other passengers.
The Jos–Kaduna route has continued to witness repeated cases of kidnappings and armed attacks, raising growing concerns about the safety of commuters in the region.
Ransom Demand and Negotiations
Sources said the kidnappers initially demanded ₦30 million for his release.
However, after negotiations, the amount was reportedly reduced to ₦10 million.
His family was said to have raised about ₦6 million at an early stage, but efforts continued to secure the remaining balance as the ordeal dragged on.
Despite partial payments, the abductors were later said to have insisted on receiving the full ₦10 million before releasing him.
Conflicting Reports During Captivity
During his time in captivity, conflicting reports emerged about his condition, including unverified claims that he had been killed.
The rumours sparked panic on social media before the kidnappers later released a video insisting he was still alive.
University Community and Alumni Intervention
The University of Jos Alumni Association reportedly launched a fundraising effort to support his release.
Members and supporters were urged to contribute towards the ransom demand and related logistics in a bid to secure his safe return.
Freedom Confirmed in Viral Video
His release was later confirmed in a video circulating online, showing him in a weak but stable condition after regaining freedom along the northern route around Funtua en route Zaria.
Details Still Unclear
At the time of filing this report, details surrounding the exact circumstances of his release remain unclear.
See below;
AT LAST… JOHN ARUM AZI HAS BEEN SET FREE.
The entire family of John Arum Azi was enveloped in overwhelming joy and relief as they welcomed him back home after enduring countless days trapped in the harrowing clutches of his kidnappers, a situation that seemed to stretch time… pic.twitter.com/L48RDFUNoV
— JOStified X (@_Thrixian) April 22, 2026
