University of Jos Graduate Regains Freedom After 11 Days in Captivity

A graduate of University of Jos, John Azi, has regained his freedom after spending 11 days in captivity following his abduction along the Jos–Kaduna highway.

John Azi, a graduate of Early Childhood Education, was reportedly kidnapped on April 11, 2026, while travelling from Jos to Zaria, a route that has repeatedly witnessed cases of insecurity and abductions.

Confirming the development, his brother, Joseph Azi, disclosed that the abductors initially demanded a ransom of ₦30 million before later reducing the amount during negotiations.

According to the family, the total ransom eventually paid was about ₦10.3 million, reportedly delivered in instalments following changing demands from the kidnappers.

The incident had earlier attracted public attention after a video surfaced online showing the victim alongside another man who claimed he had been released.

Speaking on the development, the victim’s eldest brother, Bulus Azi, said John Azi was released in Zaria and arrangements were being made to transport him back to Jos for medical evaluation and care.

He explained that although security agencies were informed about the abduction, the family handled negotiations directly with the kidnappers in a bid to secure the victim’s safe release as quickly as possible.

As of the time of reporting, the Plateau State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.