The Federal Government through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has strongly decried the kidnapping of 20 medical students and a house officer in Benue State. The students, from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos, were enroute to a conference in Enugu State when they were ambushed by gunmen in Otukpo, Benue State.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has also ordered the immediate deployment of substantial human and technical resources to augment the strength of Benue State Command towards the swift rescue of the students.
Some of the resources deployed by the IGP, according to the Police PRO, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, were tactical units, advanced helicopters, drones, and specialised vehicles to facilitate the search and secure the safe return of the victims.
In a statement released on its official platform, the Federal Ministry of Health expressed concern and called for the immediate release of the captives.
“The ministry condemns this act of violence in the strongest terms and demands the unconditional release of the abducted students. Their safety and well-being are our top priority.
“We urge security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice. We also call on those engaged in such criminal activities to cease and respect human life.
“The kidnapping of medical students hinders efforts to strengthen the healthcare workforce,” FMoH decried.
The statement, signed by Ado Bako, assistant director, information & PR, FMoH, highlighted the need for a safe environment for healthcare professionals and expressed solidarity with the families of the kidnapped students.
The FMoH assures of its efforts in monitoring the situation closely and taking necessary measures to ensure their safety and security.
