UNIZIK Students Demand Action Over Rising Kidnappings
UNIZIK students' express concerns over increasing kidnapping cases, urging authorities to address insecurity affecting campus and off-campus areas.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a recent forum organized by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Nnamdi Azikiwe University Radio in Awka, students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) voiced their concerns regarding the surge in kidnapping incidents affecting students both on and off campus. The students, deeply troubled by the unsettling trend, called upon governmental and institutional bodies to take decisive actions to address the growing insecurity.
During the summit, which commemorated the 10th anniversary of the abduction of the Chibok girls in the North East, UNIZIK students highlighted their distress over the prevailing atmosphere of fear and anxiety. They lamented the constant threat of abduction, revealing that the pervasive insecurity has significantly disrupted their academic focus and left their parents gripped by constant apprehension.
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The palpable unease among the student body was underscored by the recent disappearance of a 200-level student, adding to the distress caused by the abduction of Francisca Chioma, who was seized while en route to a burial ceremony. Despite the university's efforts to bolster security measures, including the involvement of Mr. Ken Chukwurah, the Chief Security Officer, challenges persist, particularly due to the majority of students residing off-campus.
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Mr. Chukwurah emphasized the shared responsibility of ensuring security, urging students to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding themselves. With a significant portion of students living off-campus, he stressed the importance of personal security awareness and preparedness. Providing practical advice, he encouraged students, particularly women, to exercise caution during travels, advocating for precautionary measures such as public meetings and self-defense strategies.
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The escalating incidents of kidnapping have cast a shadow of fear over UNIZIK, prompting a call to action from the student community. As the university grapples with the complex dynamics of off-campus security, collaborative efforts between authorities, students, and relevant stakeholders are essential to restore a sense of safety and normalcy to the campus environment.
