Gunmen have abducted a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member and a 300-level student of the University of Jos in Dong, a community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The victims were kidnapped from a residential home on Sunday night, according to Mr. Solomon Dansura, a resident of the area whose home was attacked.
Speaking to journalists in Jos on Tuesday, Dansura said the gunmen stormed his home while the family was preparing to go to bed.
He explained that just three minutes after he retired to his room, he heard suspicious noises from a window and realized that intruders were trying to force their way inside.
“I quickly escaped through the back door to get help. By the time I returned, they had already taken my sister-in-law and her friend,” he said.
Dansura identified one of the victims as his sister-in-law, a corps member currently serving in Bauchi State, who was also preparing for her upcoming wedding.
The second victim is a university student who had been visiting.
Security operatives, including police and military personnel, arrived at the scene after the attackers had already escaped with the victims.
“This is my first experience with kidnapping, and it’s been traumatic,” Dansura said.
He added that the kidnappers contacted the family on Monday morning, demanding a ₦50 million ransom and warning that they expect the money ready by the next time they call.
The incident has heightened fear across Dong community, where locals say abductions have become increasingly common.
District Head Adagwom Kaze Nyam and community leader Nenfort Clifford expressed serious concern over the growing insecurity, urging the government to deploy more security forces to protect lives and property.
Franca Diwa, a prominent women’s leader, and Mildred Bako, a youth activist, warned that Dong could soon become deserted despite its proximity to Jos city, as families are increasingly relocating or selling their homes due to fear of violence.
Meanwhile, Hon. Mark Na’ah, who represents Jos North-West in the Plateau State House of Assembly, visited the area following the abduction.
He disclosed that some individuals previously linked to similar crimes had been arrested but were later released without facing trial.
He condemned the trend and called for urgent reforms in the justice system and improved security in the area.
“We must put an end to this dangerous cycle. Without justice, these criminal acts will continue to threaten the safety and stability of our communities,” he said.
