Gunmen have abducted more than 20 medical and dental students, along with a House Officer, in a shocking incident in Benue State.
The students were on their way to the annual convention of the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) in Enugu when they were attacked.
Ambush in Otukpo
The victims, comprising students from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos, were traveling in a group when the attack occurred around 5:30 p.m.
on Wednesday in the Otukpo area of the state. The assailants, armed and masked, ambushed the students’ vehicles, forcing them off the road and into captivity.
According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen blocked the road and fired shots into the air to scare away other motorists before taking the students into the surrounding bush.
The incident has left the community in shock and raised concerns about the safety of travelers in the region.
Police Confirm Incident
The spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the abduction and stated that law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the incident.
“Yes, the report of the kidnapping is true. It was received between 5:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., and an investigation is ongoing,” SP Anene told Vanguard.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of the students and to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act.”
Efforts to Rescue the Students
Authorities have launched a manhunt for the kidnappers, deploying a team of police officers and local vigilantes to comb the area.
The police have also set up checkpoints and are conducting stop-and-search operations along major roads in the state.
“We are collaborating with other security agencies and local communities to gather intelligence and locate the victims,” SP Anene added.
“We urge anyone with information on the whereabouts of the students or the kidnappers to come forward and assist the police in their investigation.”
FECAMDS Calls for Swift Action
The Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS), the organization hosting the convention, has expressed deep concern over the incident and called on the government and security agencies to ensure the safe release of the abducted students.
“We are saddened and shocked by this unfortunate incident,” a statement from FECAMDS read. “We call on the authorities to take immediate and decisive action to rescue our colleagues and bring the perpetrators to justice. The safety and security of our students should be a top priority.”
Worsening Security Situation
This latest incident adds to the growing list of kidnappings and violent crimes in Nigeria, particularly in the northern and central regions of the country.
In recent months, there has been a spike in abductions, with criminals targeting students, travelers, and residents for ransom.
Community leaders and residents in Benue State have called on the government to intensify security measures and address the underlying causes of insecurity in the region.
They have also urged travelers to exercise caution and avoid traveling at night or through isolated areas.
Appeal for Information
The police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or security agency.
They have also appealed to the kidnappers to release the students unharmed and to engage in peaceful dialogue.
“We appeal to the kidnappers to release the students unharmed and to seek a peaceful resolution to their grievances,” SP Anene said.
“Violence and abduction are not the solutions to any problem, and we must work together to build a safe and secure society for all.”
As the investigation continues, the families and friends of the abducted students are anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones’ safe return.
