In a chilling resurgence of terror, suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents struck along the notorious Damaturu-Biu road, abducting Professor Abubakar Eljuma of the Nigeria Army University Biu (NAUB) and several other travelers on the 2nd of March, 2023.
The attack occurred near Kamuya village, a hotspot of insurgent activities. Professor Eljuma, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, is said to be among the leading candidates for the soon-to-be-vacant Vice-Chancellor position at NAUB.
Kamuya village, located just 10km from Buratai, the hometown of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Yusuf Tukur Buratai (Rtd) has long been a flashpoint for kidnappings, bombings, and killings over the past decade.
“On 2/3/2025, suspected ISWAP/BOKO HARAM elements abducted unspecified number of travellers from 2 x Golf cars and a Borno Express bus along Damaturu-Biu road.
“Reports further indicate that all female passengers were freed except the male. It was also revealed that a potential candidate for the position of VC NAUB, Professor Abubakar Eljuma is among the victims.
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“We are requesting your prayers in this holy month of Ramadan for their quick release. A reliable security source said.”
The attack has sent shockwaves through the academic community, with NAUB staff confirming that an emergency meeting is underway.
A university staff member, who is not authorized to speak to the press, told our correspondent on Monday, “the University Management are currently having a crucial meeting over the abduction of the Professor.”
As authorities scramble to respond, fear grips the region once again, with many questioning how such attacks continue unabated despite counter-terrorism efforts.