The House of Representatives has voiced deep concern over the recent abduction of 20 medical students in Benue State, calling for urgent intervention from security agencies.
The students, including 12 from the University of Jos and 8 from the University of Maiduguri, were kidnapped on August 15, 2024, while en route to a conference organized by the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) in Enugu.
The incident has sparked widespread alarm across the nation. The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has expressed grave concern for the safety of the students. In a letter to the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Benjamin Egbo, NMA Secretary-General, urged the police to deploy all necessary resources to ensure the students’ immediate and safe return.
Echoing these sentiments, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) emphasized the critical role of students in the nation’s future, declaring that an attack on them is an attack on Nigeria’s future. The NANS leadership stressed the importance of protecting medical students, who are vital to the country’s healthcare system.
In a statement Spokesman, House of Representatives Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr. said the Chairman of the House Committee on Healthcare Services, Rep. Dennis Idahosa underscored the urgency of the situation, stating, “The safety of our medical students is paramount. This incident is not just an attack on these young professionals but on the future of our healthcare system. We demand decisive action from our security agencies to bring these students home safely.”
The House of Representatives stands in solidarity with the NMA and NANS, urging the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to act swiftly and decisively. The House remains committed to supporting efforts to enhance the security and safety of all Nigerians and will closely monitor the situation.
