 |
| CCTV Cameras Turned Off Prior to Kogi University Students' Kidnapping – Gov Ododo |
This information was shared by the governor during his visit to the university's campus to evaluate the security conditions following the incident that resulted in the students' kidnapping.
Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State voiced his concern on Saturday regarding the deactivation of all CCTV cameras prior to the kidnapping of students at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTEC), Osara, Kogi.
This information was shared by the governor during his visit to the university's campus to evaluate the security conditions following the incident that resulted in the students' kidnapping.
On Thursday evening, bandits stormed the university and kidnapped nine students. The students' location is still unknown, and the kidnappers have not yet contacted the institution's management.
Accompanied by the Vice Chancellor, Prof Abdulraman Asipita, Ododo remarked, "The government has a responsibility to safeguard lives and property throughout the state.
"We are committed to ensuring the students' safety, which is why we permitted their residence on campus.
"Despite the presence of CCTV cameras in every classroom and around the university's perimeter, the kidnappers were able to carry out their plan.
"Our preliminary investigation indicates that the cameras were turned off, suggesting internal sabotage," he added.
Ododo noted that security forces are actively pursuing the culprits, with ongoing investigations aimed at apprehending them.
He mentioned that the operation would be frequently reassessed as new information from the investigation comes to light.
"I've come to personally inspect the situation and reevaluate the current operation to guarantee the students' safe return. The priority is the students' safe rescue.
"While we possess crucial information, it cannot be disclosed publicly. I urge parents and students to remain calm as we intensify efforts to ensure the students' return," he stated.
Ododo praised the security personnel for their bravery in reducing the attack's severity by blocking the assailants' entry to the university dormitories.
"We will leave no stone unturned in rescuing the students and averting future incidents like this on the university grounds and across the state," Ododo guaranteed. (NAN)
