Nigerian police and security agencies are actively working to secure the release of 20 medical students who were kidnapped in the eastern part of the country. The students, who were traveling to an annual convention in Enugu, were abducted in Benue State on Thursday evening. Among those kidnapped are students from the University of Jos and the University of Maiduguri, along with a doctor accompanying them.
The Nigerian Medical Students’ Association and the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students have both expressed deep concern over the situation. Reports indicate that the kidnappers have made a ransom demand, and one of the students was able to share their location, suggesting they are being held in the Oglewu Ehaje area of Benue State.
In response, the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has directed security agencies to intensify their efforts to ensure the safe release of the students. The national police have also deployed advanced helicopters, drones, and specialized tactical vehicles to aid in the search and rescue operation.
This incident is part of a broader trend of increased kidnappings in Nigeria, driven by a severe economic crisis. Despite a law passed in 2022 banning ransom payments, many families feel compelled to pay to secure the release of their loved ones. According to SBM Intelligence, there have been 4,777 kidnapping cases recorded between May 2023 and January 2024.
