Gateway ICT Polytechnic SUG Confirms Abduction of Five Students, Debunks Rumours After Hostel Attack
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, has confirmed that five students were abducted by suspected armed bandits during an attack on a private off-campus hostel on Wednesday evening, while dismissing widespread reports on social media describing the incident as more devastating than it actually was.
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 30 2026, the SUG clarified that the security breach occurred at about 7:45 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at a privately-owned student hostel located along Paraga Road, Ipara, outside the institution’s main campus.
According to the Union, the hostel is situated in an isolated area surrounded by thick vegetation, making it particularly vulnerable to criminal attacks and unsuitable as a safe residential environment for students.
The SUG disclosed that the armed assailants reportedly invaded the hostel and operated for approximately 30 minutes, firing several gunshots during the incident. Despite the frightening attack, the Union stressed that no student was killed, contrary to several unverified reports circulating on social media.
Global Mirror News gathered that while the attackers held occupants of the hostel captive, some students managed to escape by breaking through the POP ceiling of the building, while others were unable to flee before the gunmen left the scene.
The Union confirmed that five students were abducted during the attack and noted that the incident has been formally reported to the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies, which have commenced efforts to secure the safe rescue of the victims.
The Students’ Union appealed to parents, guardians, students and members of the public to disregard false, exaggerated and unverified reports capable of creating unnecessary panic within the institution and surrounding communities.
While acknowledging the seriousness of the incident, the Union maintained that misinformation being circulated online does not reflect the actual situation and could undermine ongoing rescue operations by security agencies.
The SUG further urged students planning to reside off-campus to patronise hostels located in secure, populated neighbourhoods with easier access to emergency response, rather than isolated locations that expose residents to security threats.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of students, the union said it is working closely with the Institution’s management and security agencies to ensure the safe return of the abducted students and to strengthen measures aimed at protecting members of the academic community.
The Union also expressed solidarity with the affected students and their families, while calling on the public to continue praying for the safe and speedy release of the abducted students.
The statement was jointly signed by the SUG President, Comrade Akinpelu Bukunmi Timothy; General Secretary, Comrade Salau Boluwaduro Saidat; and Public Relations Officer, Comrade Ambassador Matthew Francis Sonayon (Sonat).
