The Kano Science Schools Old Students Association, KASSOSA, has called on the Federal and Kano State governments, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts to secure the release of its member, Mujaheed Ado Alkassim, who has spent more than 55 days in kidnappers’ captivity.
The appeal was contained in an open letter dated October 22, addressed to the leadership and members of the association and signed by Ahmad Lawan Gana, a 2005 graduate of the college.
Mr Alkassim, a 2003 alumnus of Dawakin Tofa Science College, was reportedly abducted by suspected kidnappers while travelling from Sokoto to Kano, where he works.
Mr Gana described the prolonged captivity of his former schoolmate as heartbreaking, saying it had caused immense distress to his family, friends and members of the association.
He said Mr Alkassim was widely known for his humility, kindness and good character, adding that the ordeal he was facing was one no individual deserved.
According to him, a video released by the abductors showed Mr Alkassim appealing to the government, friends and family members to intervene and facilitate his release.
“More than 55 days have passed since he was taken from his family. That is more than 55 days of fear, anguish, uncertainty and longing for his safe return,” Gana said.
He urged members of the association to demonstrate solidarity with their colleague and his family, stressing that the bond among former students should extend beyond annual meetings, anniversaries and social gatherings.
“Our brotherhood must mean more than annual meetings, anniversaries and attending one another’s weddings. Those occasions matter, but our bond must also be evident when one of us faces danger or hardship.
“True brotherhood is tested in difficult times. It is shown when one member is in distress and the rest stand together, speak up and take practical steps to help. Mujaheed needs that solidarity now,” he said.
Mr Gana also called on members to intensify public awareness campaigns through social media and credible news organisations to draw the attention of the authorities to Alkassim’s plight.
He said the association should provide support to the victim’s family and use its networks to encourage the relevant authorities to take urgent action towards securing his release.
“They should know that they are not alone and that the KASSOSA family stands with them,” he said.
Mr Gana warned that the continued captivity of their colleague underscored the need for collective responsibility and solidarity in addressing insecurity.
“Today, it is Mujaheed; tomorrow, any family could face a similar ordeal. Let this moment remind us of the importance of solidarity, compassion and collective responsibility.
“KASSOSA, let us rise together. Let us speak with one voice, support his family, engage the authorities and use our networks responsibly. Let us do all we can to bring our brother home safely,” he said.