John Azi, a University of Jos graduate, has been released after 11 days in captivity following a kidnapping incident on April 11 while travelling from Jos, Plateau State, to Zaria in Kaduna State. The 27-year-old, who studied early childhood education, was abducted along the route and held for ransom. His family confirmed his release on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, after paying a total of ₦10.3 million in instalments to secure his freedom. The ransom amount fluctuated multiple times during negotiations, with the abductors initially demanding ₦30 million before reducing it to ₦5 million, alongside other undisclosed items.
Azi’s eldest brother, Bulus Azi, told The Cable that the family had to make payments in stages due to the kidnappers’ changing demands. “We paid it almost three times because whenever there’s news in social media, they will increase the amount. That was what they kept doing,” he explained. The first payment was ₦6.315 million, followed by an additional ₦4 million after the abductors raised their demands. Despite the release, the family had not yet physically reunited with John as of Wednesday. Bulus noted, “That video was from Zaria. We are yet to see him… he’s on his way coming. We chartered a car, and we are still expecting him.”
The abductors arranged for Azi’s release through a motorcycle rider, as confirmed by his brother. “After we had paid yesterday, they decided to connect him. They said they will look for a bike man who will bring him out,” Bulus said. Before being transported to Jos, the victim received initial medical attention, according to the family. They emphasized that while they reported the incident to the police, they chose to handle the negotiations independently to ensure a swift resolution. “We cannot leave him there waiting for police. It’s between us and them. And we have to do what they say we should do to be able to save a life,” Bulus stated.
The family’s experience highlights the growing challenges of kidnapping in Nigeria’s northern regions, where abductions for ransom remain a persistent threat. Azi’s release after 11 days of captivity comes amid increasing calls for improved security measures along major highways. As he makes his way back to Jos, his family remains cautious, hoping for a full recovery and a return to normalcy. This case underscores the urgent need for stronger law enforcement presence and community safety initiatives across the country.
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