University of Jos Student Reunited With Family After Ten Million Naira Ransom Payment Ends Torture Ordeal

Abducted University of Jos student John Arum Azi has been freed and hospitalized. Read the details of the N10.3 million ransom and his journey home.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 24, 2026, 6:58 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Daily Post Nigeria

Victim Returns to Jos Following Two Week Captivity

John Arum Azi, a student of the University of Jos who had been missing for approximately two weeks, arrived back in the Plateau State capital on Wednesday night at approximately 10pm. His release marks the end of a high profile abduction case that drew national attention after footage of his physical abuse was shared by his captors. Upon his return, the victim was immediately transported to the Jos University Teaching Hospital to receive medical attention for injuries sustained during his time in the bush.

Clarification of the Circumstances Surrounding the Abduction

While initial reports suggested that Azi was intercepted while traveling to Kaduna, his elder brother, Bulus, has clarified the actual location of the incident. Upon his return, Azi informed his family that he had already reached Zaria and was on his way to meet a contact regarding a potential job opportunity when he was seized. The kidnappers subsequently moved him from the Zaria area into the bush, later transporting him as far as Zamfara State, which had sparked unverified rumors regarding his safety.

Escalation of Ransom Demands Following Public Crowdfunding

The negotiation process was characterized by shifting demands and frequent requests for smaller financial transfers. Bulus noted that the family remained in constant contact with the kidnappers, who frequently requested money for mobile recharge cards and claimed they needed funds for their own medical supplies. Although an initial ransom of N6 million was discussed, the abductors increased the price to N15 million after witnessing crowdfunding efforts online. The final payment was eventually settled at N10,315,000 to secure his release.