A former Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu, has condemned the abduction of some students of Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu Okigwe.

AFNews had reported how unknown gunmen kidnapped the students along the university road on Wednesday.

A statement released by the state government said it had yet to ascertain the number and identity of the affected students, adding that two students escaped from the attack.

The statement added that the victims were returning to the campus in a mini-bus between 7 pm and 8 pm when the vehicle ran into the hoodlums.

It noted that the armed gang marched the victims into the nearby forest, along with other commuters in the bus.

However, in a statement on Thursday personally signed by him, the Abia North Senator and the Senate Chief of Whip described the abduction as totally condemnable and unacceptable.

He said: “The abduction of students of Abia State University (ABSU) by unidentified criminals along Okigwe-Uturu road is totally condemnable and unacceptable.

“The students are our children and future leaders of tomorrow and as such they don’t deserve to go through this emotional trauma.

“I am not only touched but extremely disturbed by this sad and ugly development. Moving forward all hands must be on deck to secure the release of the abducted students unharmed.

“We must work in synergy with security agencies in exposing the perpetrators of evil acts in the society.

“I, however, appreciate the prompt response of the Governors of Abia and Imo states in working closely with other stakeholders in a bid to ensure the safe release of the abducted students.

“On my path, I have established contacts with the relevant security agencies to ensure the safe return of these students as well as putting in place proactive measures.

“I also appeal to their parents as well as the ABSU community to be calm and optimistic, the fight against kidnapping and other vices remains a collective responsibility of all levels of government regardless of political affiliation.”