The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for its colleagues’ immediate and unconditional release.
Nigerian Tribune reports that the students were abducted by gunmen on Thursday evening while traveling to the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) annual convention in Enugu.
In a statement issued on Saturday by NANS Senate President Afeez Akinteye, the group condemned the recent kidnapping of over 20 medical and dental students from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos in Benue State.
NANS, in the statement, called on relevant authorities, including the Federal Government, State Governments, and security agencies, to intensify their efforts in securing the release of the students.
The group, which reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of students, expressed its sympathy and solidarity with the victims and their families.
“We are deeply disturbed by the recent abduction of 20 medical students from Otukpo, Benue State. The students, who were en route to the annual convention of the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students in Enugu when they were kidnapped, have been subjected to this abhorrent act of violence.
This not only jeopardizes the safety of these young scholars but also threatens the continuity of our nation’s healthcare workforce.
“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted students. Their freedom and safety are paramount, and no form of negotiation that compromises their well-being should be entertained.
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“We call upon the relevant authorities, including the Federal Government, State Governments, and security agencies, to intensify their efforts in securing the release of the students. Adequate security measures must be implemented to ensure the protection of all students, whose education and safety are critical to the future of our nation.
“Students are the future leaders, professionals, and innovators of our country. It is imperative that the government and security agencies take all necessary actions to secure their safe return. The importance of safeguarding students cannot be overstated, as their well-being directly impacts the advancement and stability of our society.
“In the same vein, we extend our heartfelt support and solidarity to the families of the abducted students. We understand the immense distress they are facing and stand with them in their call for justice.
“However, we unequivocally condemn all forms of violence and criminal activity targeting students and educational institutions. Such acts undermine the very foundation of our educational system and must be addressed with the utmost seriousness.
“We remain resolute in our commitment to ensuring the safety of students and will continue to advocate for measures that protect the academic community from such threats. We urge all stakeholders to join us in demanding the immediate release of the abducted students and to work collaboratively towards creating a safer environment for education in Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
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