31, July 2026
The Students’ Union Government of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, Ogun State, has confirmed that five students were abducted following an attack on a private student hostel in Ipara.
In a joint statement signed by SUG President, Comrade Akinpelu Bukunmi Timothy; General Secretary, Comrade Salau Boluwaduro Saidat; and Public Relations Officer, Comrade Ambassador Matthew Francis Sonayon, the union said the incident occurred at about 7:45 p.m. on Thursday at a private hostel along Paraga Road, Ipara.
The SUG noted that the hostel is located in a remote area surrounded by thick bush, which makes it vulnerable and unsuitable as a safe residential environment for students.
According to the union, the attack lasted about 30 minutes. “Suspected armed bandits attacked the hostel and fired gunshots. No student lost their life. By the grace of God, several students escaped through the POP ceiling, while others could not flee,” the statement read.
The union confirmed that five students were taken during the attack. It added that the matter has been reported to the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies, and that efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted students.
The SUG urged students, parents, guardians and the public to disregard unverified reports circulating on social media.
“While the incident is real and deeply unfortunate, many of the stories currently in circulation do not accurately represent the facts and only serve to create unnecessary fear and panic within the school community,” the statement said.
It appealed for calm and asked the public to rely only on verified information from the institution, the Students’ Union Government and security agencies.
“We encourage everyone to remain calm and avoid spreading rumours that may interfere with ongoing rescue and security operations,” the union stated.
The SUG also advised students seeking off-campus accommodation to prioritise hostels in secure and well-populated areas, and to avoid isolated locations that could expose them to security risks.
Reaffirming its support for the affected students and their families, the union pledged to continue working with the school management and security agencies until the abducted students are rescued.
“We stand in solidarity with the affected students and their families. We remain committed to working closely with the school management and security agencies until our colleagues are safely reunited with their loved ones,” the statement concluded.
The union prayed for the speedy and safe return of the abducted students.
