A kidnapped graduate of the University of Jos, John Arum, has appeared in a new video released by his abductors, where he confirmed that he is still alive, dismissing rumours that he had been killed in captivity.
The fresh video, which surfaced on Sunday, April 20, 2026, shows the young man speaking under duress while sitting in what appears to be a bush hideout. The release of the footage comes after days of growing concern over his safety, following earlier disturbing images that circulated online.
In recent days, reports had spread on social media suggesting that the abducted graduate may have died in the hands of his kidnappers. However, the new video released by the armed group has denied those claims.
In the video, John Arum clearly states his condition and date, saying: “Today is April 20, 2026 and I am alive.” His statement appears to have been made under instruction from his captors, who were present but not fully visible in the clip.
The kidnappers also used the video to restate their demand for ransom. According to them, a total of ₦10 million was demanded for his release. They claimed that ₦6 million has already been paid, leaving a balance of ₦4 million.
They warned that any further delay in paying the remaining amount could result in the death of the victim. The threat has heightened tension among his family members and concerned Nigerians who have been following the case.
Kidnapping for ransom has remained a major security challenge in many parts of Nigeria, especially in the North and parts of the Middle Belt, including Plateau State where Jos is located.
In recent years, students, travellers, farmers, and residents have repeatedly fallen victim to armed groups who abduct victims and demand large sums of money for their release.
The University of Jos graduate was reportedly abducted under circumstances that have not been fully made public. Since then, his case has attracted attention after a video showing him in captivity first went viral online.
That earlier footage raised fears about his condition, especially because he appeared weak and under distress. It also triggered speculation that he might not survive if urgent action was not taken.
The new video has brought some relief to those hoping the victim was still alive, but it has also renewed concern about his safety, especially given the continued threats from the abductors.
The confirmation that part of the ransom has already been paid may also increase pressure on the family to raise the remaining ₦4 million demanded by the kidnappers.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the police or security agencies regarding the latest video or ongoing rescue efforts.
The incident adds to growing concerns about insecurity in parts of Nigeria, where kidnapping for ransom has become a major criminal enterprise.
Despite several military operations and arrests in different states, armed groups continue to operate in forests and remote areas, targeting civilians and demanding ransom payments.
Families of victims are often left with the difficult choice of either raising large sums of money or waiting for security agencies to intervene. In many cases, negotiations are done quietly to avoid endangering the lives of abducted persons.
Civil society groups have repeatedly called on government authorities to strengthen security operations and improve intelligence gathering to stop kidnapping networks.
The latest video has sparked renewed calls for urgent action to secure the release of John Arum. Many Nigerians on social media have expressed concern over the repeated ransom demands and the danger faced by victims in captivity.
However, families of victims often say they are left with little choice when lives are at stake.
For now, the fate of the abducted graduate remains uncertain as the kidnappers insist on payment of the remaining ₦4 million.
The video has confirmed that he is still alive, but also highlighted the urgency of the situation, with the abductors issuing a clear warning of possible consequences if their demands are not met.
As Nigerians continue to follow the case, attention remains on security agencies and whether efforts will be made to track down the kidnappers and secure the victim’s release without further payment or loss of life.