20 University Students Abducted in Benue State During Medical Convention Journey

20 University Students Abducted in Benue State During Medical Convention Journey

In a distressing incident, 20 university students from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos have been reportedly kidnapped while traveling to Enugu State. Among the abducted are eight members of the University of Maiduguri Medical Students Association (UMMESA) who were heading to the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FCMDS) Annual Convention.

The students embarked on their journey on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, leaving the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH). After an overnight stop at the University of Jos, they resumed their journey on Thursday, August 15, 2024. The group, now totaling 18 individuals after being joined by 10 students from the University of Jos, lost contact at 3:24 PM on August 15, 2024.

The abduction reportedly took place along the Otukpo (Benue) – Enugu road, a route commonly used by travelers between these states. The list of kidnapped students includes Boniface Tizhe, Thomas Yahaya, Fortune Umeh, Godwin Tumba, Iwev Gabriel Jita, Boniface Okon, Dondo Fabian, John Bitrus, Monica Ejembi, Ogbonna George Chukwuebuka, Paul Nyampa Zira, Lawrence Victory Adaugo, Okopi Pete, Enger Benedicta, Kwaghaondo Aondona Kingsley, Paul Shantong, Victoria Cornelius, Pius Samson, Okan Adara, and Dr. Luis Mmbamonyeukwu.

This alarming situation has triggered urgent responses from university officials, law enforcement agencies, and concerned parties. Families and the academic community remain on edge, awaiting further updates as efforts continue to ensure the students’ safe return.