NANS condemns abduction of medical students, demands immediate action

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has described as barbaric, heinous, and unacceptable, the kidnapping of more than 20 medical students from the University of Jos and the University of Maiduguri.

The umbrella body of Nigerian students pointed out that the ugly incident is a stark reminder of the escalating insecurity in the country, while also calling for immediate action by security agencies.

A statement by the NANS President, Lucky Emonefe, on Sunday in Abuja, also sympathised with the families of the abducted students.

The Guardian reports that over 20 medical students, as well as a house officer, were travelling to the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) annual convention in Enugu when they were attacked by gunmen around 5:30 p.m. in Otukpo, Benue State, on Thursday evening.

Reacting, Emonefe said: “The fact that this incident occurred despite the presence of security personnel along the notorious Otukpo-Otukpo portion of the federal highway is alarming.

“The leadership of NANS finds it pertinent to assure Nigerian students that their welfare and safety are the top priorities of our agenda. We understand that this incident may cause anxiety and fear among our members, but we urge you not to panic. We are working tirelessly to ensure that your welfare does not suffer, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to ensure the freedom of the abducted students.

“We are engaging with relevant authorities to demand immediate action to rescue the abducted students and ensure their safe release. We appeal to the state and federal governments to take concrete steps to address the security challenges facing our nation. The government must demonstrate its commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerian citizens, particularly students who are the future leaders of our nation.

“We demand that the perpetrators of this evil act be brought to justice and held accountable for their actions. NANS will continue to monitor the situation and work with relevant authorities to ensure that the abducted students are rescued and reunited with their families.

“We call on all stakeholders, including parents, educators, and civil society organisations, to join us in condemning this act and demanding action from the government. Together, we can ensure that our students are safe and secure, and that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice.”