The management of Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State, has declared a two-week break following the abduction of seven students by gunmen, as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the victims.
The Rector of the institution Dr. Aminu Yusuf disclosed this in a chat with newsmen on Friday.
He clarified that the incident occurred at a private hostel known as Chat House off the school campus, and not within the polytechnic premises as earlier reported.
The Rector debunked reports that the attack took place inside the main campus of the polytechnic.
According to him, the abductors struck at Chat House, an off campus students’ lodge, where they abducted seven students.
He said one student managed to escape during the incident.
He confirmed that the institution has already informed the National Board for Technical Education, NBTE, and other relevant authorities about the development.
In response to the attack, the polytechnic management held an emergency security meeting with security agencies in the area to review safety measures and coordinate rescue operations.
The Rector assured parents, students, and the public that efforts are ongoing by security agencies to track and rescue the abducted students.
He expressed optimism that the students would soon be reunited with their families.
“The management of the Polytechnic is working round the clock to ensure the safety of students. We are in constant touch with security agencies and we believe the abducted students will soon be rescued,” he said.
The Rector called on all students living off-campus to relocate to the main campus hostels for better protection.
He said the school cannot guarantee safety in scattered private lodges outside the campus perimeter.
He also appealed to host communities around the polytechnic to remain calm and vigilant.
“Report any suspicious movement to security agencies for prompt response. Community cooperation is key at this time,” he added.