John Arum
A graduate of the University of Jos, John Arum Azi, has shared a chilling account of how a supposed job opportunity turned into a nightmare, leaving him in the hands of kidnappers for 11 days.
Azi narrated his ordeal during a church testimony in Tudun Wada, Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State. According to him, the incident began on April 11, 2026, when he travelled from Jos to Zaria, Kaduna State, after being contacted for what appeared to be a genuine welding job.
He explained that the individuals behind the offer repeatedly called him and even sent transportation money, convincing him of the job’s authenticity.
Upon arriving in Zaria, he was directed to take a motorcycle to a remote village. Although he became uneasy during the journey, his need for employment pushed him to ignore the warning signs.
On getting there, he was received by a man who claimed to be his employer. He was subsequently taken deeper into a forest where he encountered armed men.
Realising too late that he had been deceived, Azi was forced to kneel, searched, and stripped of his belongings before being handed unfamiliar clothing and a face mask.
He was then transported through isolated routes from Kaduna State into Zamfara State, travelling for several hours on motorcycles without encountering any form of security.
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At the kidnappers’ camp, Azi said his hands and legs were tied as they contacted his family, demanding a ransom of ₦30 million.
He added that he was subjected to physical abuse and intense interrogation, particularly about his religious identity.
Out of fear, he initially concealed his faith but later revealed it after enduring severe beatings. His captors reportedly nicknamed him “Pastor” afterward.
Azi said his survival during captivity was anchored on constant prayers and hope. Following negotiations, the ransom was reduced to ₦6 million.
However, even after payment, the abductors allegedly demanded an additional ₦4 million before eventually releasing him.
He credited the support of family, friends, and sympathisers for securing his freedom. Although traumatised by the experience, Azi expressed gratitude for surviving the ordeal.
The incident highlights the growing danger of fake job offers being used as bait by criminal groups, raising concerns about security and the safety of job seekers across the country.
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