The insecurity situation in Benue State in Nigeria’s North-Central region is far from being over as the kidnapping of more than 20 medical and dental students, as well as an intern, by gunmen has been reported.
According to The Vanguard, 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 ambushed at about 5:30pm in Otukpo area.
The victims are said to be from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos.
The spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the abduction, stating that an investigation has commenced.
“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,” she said.
PUNCH Online reported Friday that no formal demands for a ransom or release conditions have been made as at the time of filing this report.
Kidnapping has become increasingly common in Benue and other parts of Nigeria, with the state often witnessing kidnappings that have left communities in fear and uncertainty.
Two female students of the Joseph Sarwuan University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, were reportedly kidnapped by gunmen in May.
In July, gunmen kidnapped three staff members, including the acting Rector of Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, Dr. Emmanuel Barki, and demanded a ransom of N70 million.
In March, ten people were abducted from the Taraba/Benue border community in Jootar, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
This worrying trend is part of a wider wave of kidnappings across the country, with criminal gangs targeting individuals and groups, often demanding huge amounts for ransom.
The increase in these activities highlights the urgent need for increased security measures to protect citizens and address the root causes driving this crime wave.
