The House of Representatives has expressed deep concern over the kidnapping of 20 medical college students in Benue State, Nigeria, urging swift intervention from safety companies.
According to stories, the kidnapped college students, comprising 12 from the University of Jos and eight from the University of Maiduguri, have been kidnapped on Thursday, 15 August 2024, whereas travelling to a convention organised by the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students in Enugu.
This incident has brought about important alarm and misery throughout the nation.
The Nigerian Medical Association has voiced its deep concern for the security and well-being of those future medical professionals.
The NMA Secretary-General, Dr Benjamin Egbo, said in a letter to the Inspector-General of Police that “Given the urgency of this matter and the potential risks to the lives of these young students, we implore your office to deploy all necessary resources to secure their immediate and safe return. The Nigerian Medical Association is deeply concerned for the safety and well-being of these future medical professionals, and we believe that swift and decisive action by the Nigeria Police Force is crucial at this time.”
Similarly, the management of the National Association of Nigerian Students said: “As students, we are the future of Nigeria, and an attack on us is an attack on the very future of this great nation. Medical students are also crucial to the future of healthcare excellence, innovation, and compassion. Their education, safety, and well-being are vital to the progress and health of our society.”
In a press release on Saturday by the spokesperson for the House of Representatives, Rotimi Akin, the Green Chamber aligned itself with the NMA and NANS in urgently calling on the Inspector-General of Police and different safety companies to mobilise all essential assets to make sure the secure return of those college students.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Healthcare Services, Dennis Idahosa, emphasised: “The safety of our medical students is paramount, and this incident is not just an attack on these young professionals but on the future of our healthcare system. We cannot afford to lose any more lives to the insecurity plaguing our country.”
He added: “No student should be fearful of going about their lawful duties in the country. We demand decisive action from our security agencies to bring these students home safely.”
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The assertion concluded: “The House remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance the security and safety of all Nigerians and will continue to monitor this situation closely. Our thoughts and prayers are with the abducted students and their families. We call for immediate and decisive action to ensure their safe return.”