Over 20 Medical Students Kidnapped by Gunmen in Benue

In a shocking incident, more than 20 medical and dental students, along with a house officer, were kidnapped by gunmen in Benue State. The students were en route to the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) annual convention in Enugu when they were ambushed around 5:30 p.m. in the Otukpo area. The victims are reportedly from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos. The Benue State Police Command spokesperson, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the abduction, stating that an investigation is underway. “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.

As of now, there has been no official demand for ransom or conditions for the release of the kidnapped students. The incident is part of a disturbing trend of kidnappings in Benue State and across Nigeria, with criminal groups frequently targeting individuals and groups for ransom.

Earlier this year, Benue State witnessed several abductions, including the kidnapping of two female students from Joseph Sarwuan University of Agriculture, Makurdi, and three staff members, including the acting Rector of Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, Dr. Emmanuel Barki. In another incident, ten people were kidnapped at the Taraba/Benue border community in Jootar, Ukum Local Government Area, in March. The alarming rise in kidnapping incidents highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect citizens and address the root causes driving this wave of criminality.