NANS Demands Immediate Release of 20 Kidnapped Medical Students in Benue

NANS Demands Immediate Release of 20 Kidnapped Medical Students in Benue

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the abduction of over 20 medical and dental students from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos in Benue State.

The students were reportedly kidnapped by gunmen on Thursday evening while traveling to Enugu for the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) annual convention.

The incident occurred around 5:30 PM in the Otukpo area of Benue State, where the students, along with a House Officer, were ambushed. The State Police Command confirmed the abduction on Friday morning.

In a statement released on Friday, NANS Senate President, Okunomo Henry Adewumi, demanded the immediate and unconditional release of their colleagues. The student body also called on security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted students.

“This heinous act highlights the escalating insecurity in our nation, reminiscent of the recent abduction and killing of passengers in Ondo State, as well as the brutal murder of a farmer by herdsmen in Oba Akoko, Ondo State,” the statement read.

NANS expressed deep sympathy and solidarity with the victims and their families, urging the government to take swift and decisive action to address the ongoing violence and prevent further incidents.

The student body reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the safety and welfare of Nigerian students, reminding the government of its responsibility to protect citizens and uphold the right to education.

NANS called for the immediate rescue of the kidnapped students, increased security in vulnerable areas of Benue and Ondo States, improved intelligence operations, and enhanced protection for educational institutions and communities.

The organization also urged the prosecution of those responsible for the abductions, including any collaborators within security forces, educational institutions, or government agencies. NANS called on the governors of the affected states to work closely with federal authorities to address the worsening security situation in their regions.