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The Forum of Nigerian Polytechnics Alumni Associations (FONPAA) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of its National President, Abba Adamu, who reportedly lost his life after being abducted by kidnappers along the Kaduna-Abuja Highway on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
The tragic development has sent shockwaves throughout the nation’s polytechnic alumni community, with members, associates and sympathizers describing the late Adamu as a respected elder statesman, seasoned administrator and unifying force whose leadership touched many institutions and communities across the country.
Sources said Adamu was traveling from Kano to Abuja for a political engagement when he was abducted by armed men suspected to be kidnappers along the notorious highway.
New details on the incident indicated that the late Adamu was reportedly killed in captivity several days later, with news of his death emerging on Monday, May 11, 2026, despite the efforts of family members and associates who reportedly raised millions of naira in ransom talks for his release.
Reports say the kidnappers had initially demanded a higher sum before negotiations led to the payment of around ₦75 million in a desperate bid to secure his freedom.
However, the kidnappers are said to have killed him and later released his remains to the family, a development that has sparked outrage and renewed fears of worsening insecurity along the Kaduna-Abuja corridor.
His death has once again drawn attention to the persistent security threats on the highway, a route that has repeatedly witnessed cases of kidnappings, armed attacks and violent crimes against commuters.
Adamu was buried in Kano on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, according to Islamic rites, as family members, political allies, associates and mourners gathered to offer prayers and pay glowing tributes to his life of service and commitment.
National voice for former students of the Polytechnic
FONPAA said the late Adamu will be remembered for his immense contribution to the growth of polytechnic alumni associations in Nigeria and for advocating for stronger collaboration among graduates of polytechnic institutions nationwide.
As the pioneer president of the forum, he was credited with laying a strong foundation for the organization and spearheading efforts to bring alumni bodies of various federal, state and private polytechnics under one umbrella.
Associates said that due to his leadership, the forum has become a stronger platform for advocacy, networking, educational advancement and support for technical and vocational education in the country.
Many members noted that his tenure was characterized by inclusiveness, dialogue and commitment to ensuring that the voices of Polytechnic graduates were heard in national conversations on education and workforce development.
Commitment to Kaduna Polytechnic
Before emerging as the national leader of FONPAA, Adamu was also the immediate past president of the Kaduna Polytechnic Alumni Association.
During his tenure, he is said to have worked tirelessly to reconnect alumni members with their alma mater and strengthen ties between graduates and the institution’s management.
Stakeholders within the association said it promoted alumni participation in institutional development, mentorship initiatives and student support programs.
A former lecturer at Kaduna Polytechnic, Adamu was also widely respected in academic circles for his dedication to teaching, administration and staff welfare.
Role in ASUP and Technical Education
The late administrator was among the leading figures associated with the initial training and development of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), where he reportedly contributed to campaigns for better working conditions for lecturers and improved standards within the polytechnic system.
Those who worked with him said he strongly believed in technical education as a key driver of national growth, youth empowerment and industrial development.
He has consistently advocated for greater investment in laboratories, workshops, workforce training, and policy reforms that would make polytechnic education more competitive and relevant.
Federal Polytechnic Damaturu Administration
Between 2013 and 2015, Adamu served as the Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Damaturu.
His tenure is said to have coincided with efforts to stabilize the institution and promote academic progress despite the security challenges affecting parts of the northeast at the time.
Former colleagues recalled that he encouraged institutional discipline, constructive engagement, and policies aimed at improving learning standards and administrative efficiency.
Public service and political career
Outside of the education sector, Adamu has also built a notable political career.
He served as the chairman of Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State from 1997 to 2000, where he was remembered for grassroots leadership and community development initiatives.
He subsequently served as Commissioner in the Ministries of Education and Environment of Jigawa State between 2000 and 2002.
Political associates said his time in government reflected his passion for education reform, environmental management and responsive governance.
Adamu also represented Birniwa/Guri/Kirikasamma Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011.
While in the National Assembly, he chaired the Integrity Group, a caucus credited in some quarters with promoting legislative stability and consensus building during a turbulent political period.
The aspiration for the governorship is interrupted
Until his death, Adamu remained active in politics and public affairs.
He was an aspirant for the governorship of Jigawa State under the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Supporters said he entered the race with plans focused on education, youth empowerment, rural development and responsible leadership.
His death, they said, ended what many saw as a promising political ambition of the state.
Condemnation of growing insecurity
FONPAA described his death as a colossal loss not only to his immediate family but also to the polytechnic community, the people of Jigawa State and the nation at large.
The association complains about the increase in cases of kidnappings and violent crimes throughout the country, especially along strategic highways used daily by thousands of commuters.
He called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify operations against criminal networks, improve surveillance on highways and ensure the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
According to the forum, no family should have to endure the pain of losing a loved one in such tragic circumstances.
Tributes and final prayers
Since news of his death broke, tributes have continued to pour in from alumni, academics, politicians and community leaders who described him as humble, approachable and deeply committed to service.
Many also remember him as a man who used his position to build bridges, mentor younger people and promote peace between different groups.
FONPAA expressed its condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, political associates and the wider Polytechnic alumni community, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul and strength for all those he left behind.
