Five students kidnapped as gunmen attack Ogun polytechnic hostel
Gunmen Abduct Five Students at Gateway ICT Polytechnic in Ogun State
At least five students from Gateway ICT Polytechnic in Saapade, Ogun State, were reportedly abducted by armed assailants on Wednesday evening.
The incident took place around 8 p.m. when the attackers stormed a private student hostel situated along Paraga Road in Ipara-Remo, a nearby community. Witnesses indicate that the attack lasted approximately 30 minutes, during which the gunmen fired shots and abducted students.
In response to the incident, the polytechnic’s management announced the cancellation of all examinations scheduled for Thursday. An official statement reassured students that while Thursday’s exam was canceled, Friday’s examination would proceed as planned unless further changes are announced.
Students were encouraged to remain calm, continue their preparations, and stay positive in light of the situation.
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) has confirmed the abduction of five students. In a statement issued by SUG officers, including President Akinpelu Bukunmi Timothy, the organization described the hostel as being located in a remote area surrounded by dense bush, rendering it vulnerable.
According to the SUG, the attack began around 7:45 p.m. and lasted for about half an hour. Due to the hostel’s isolated location, nearby residents were reportedly unable to hear or respond to the incident in time. Fortunately, some students managed to escape through a ceiling, while others were unable to flee.
The SUG emphasized that the matter has been reported to the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant authorities, expressing confidence in ongoing efforts to secure the students’ safe return.
Authorities urged the public to disregard misinformation circulating on social media. “While the incident is real and unfortunate, many stories are exaggerated and do not accurately reflect the facts,” the statement noted.
When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed the reported abduction but stated that the police had not yet confirmed the identities of the victims.
“The Ogun State Police Command is aware of the abduction incident at a private hostel in the Ipara area on Wednesday night. A coordinated operational response has been initiated, involving tactical teams and intelligence assets,” he said, adding that efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible.
The police official cautioned against circulating unverified figures that could undermine their operations.
This event follows a recent incident in which a final-year female marketing student from D.S. Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, also in Ogun State, was killed during an overnight robbery in the Eruku area.
