Zamfara varsity students’ parents: We’re excited to see our daughters again

The parents of the abducted students of the Federal University, Gusau, Zamfara State rescued on Sunday have said they are happy to be reunited with their daughters who were in captivity for seven months.

The students were abducted on Thursday, September 21, 2023, when armed bandits stormed their private hostels in Gidan Dawa, a community hosting female students of the university.

Dr Ibrahim Maiunguwa, the father of one of the victims, confirmed to Daily Trust that his daughter was among the students rescued by the military.

“It is not an easy experience for both the parents and the victims. These girls have been in captivity for seven months and now they are reuniting with their families. We thanked God,” he said.

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Also, speaking to Daily Trust, Alhaji Muhammad Malami, father of another student said he had spoken to his daughter shortly after they were released from captivity.

“She called me on the phone on their way to Abuja and she also called this morning (Monday). I was so excited yesterday (Sunday) when I heard the voice of my daughter. I prayed rigorously for their return and Allah has answered my prayer,” he added.

NSA receives 22 rescued students, staff

Meanwhile, the National Security Adviser (NSA) Malam Nuhu Ribadu on Monday received the 22 freed students and staff of the university in Abuja.

He said the rescue operation was coordinated by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) on Sunday.

Ribadu urged them not to be disheartened by their ordeal but to emerge stronger from it.

The NSA thanked the parents of the rescued victims for their patience and understanding throughout the ordeal. He also commended security agencies for their diligent work and sacrifices in ensuring a successful rescue operation.

Ribadu highlighted the operation as part of ongoing efforts to free unlawfully held captives, noting that over a thousand victims have been released quietly, respecting their privacy and safety. 

He emphasized that such rescues are part of broader measures to enhance law enforcement, prevent future abductions, and bolster security in vulnerable communities.