Kidnapping: FG Issues Fresh Directive To Expel Students Found Involved

The Federal Government has directed all tertiary institutions across the country to expel any student found guilty of kidnapping or other criminal offences after due investigation.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, issued the directive to vice-chancellors, rectors and provosts, stressing that institutions must adopt a zero-tolerance approach to criminal activities that endanger lives and undermine the integrity of the education system.

Alausa gave the directive during a meeting with the leadership, governing council and management of the Federal University of Lafia in Abuja.

His media aide, Ikharo Attah, disclosed the development in a statement, noting that the minister also urged tertiary institutions to strengthen campus security and deepen collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies.

According to Alausa, students found to have planned or participated in kidnapping or any other criminal act should no longer have a place in Nigeria’s higher institutions, insisting that schools must not become safe havens for criminal elements.

He acknowledged that universities, polytechnics and colleges of education remain largely secure but said recent incidents involving students outside campus environments highlight the need for improved intelligence gathering and stronger security coordination.

The minister maintained that safeguarding students is a collective responsibility, calling on school authorities to work closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of learners both on and off campus.

Alausa also revealed that he recently held discussions with the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), on strategies to enhance student protection under the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing a secure environment that supports teaching and learning across the country.

The minister further reiterated the Federal Government’s policy against the payment of ransom to kidnappers, warning that such payments only embolden criminal groups and encourage further attacks.

He therefore directed governing councils and school administrators to strengthen internal security mechanisms, maintain regular engagement with relevant security agencies and take decisive action against anyone who poses a threat to the safety of students and staff.