The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that 20 medical and dental students and a House Officer who were kidnapped in Benue State while en route to the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) annual convention in Enugu State have been released.
The students, from the University of Maiduguri and University of Jos, were travelling together when they were ambushed by gunmen in the Otukpo area of Benue State.
Speaking on Saturday morning, the Force P.o Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, said, “Release of 20 medical students and others. We confirm the release of our brothers and sisters and some other Nigerians who have been in captivity on Friday 23rd August 2024 in Ntunkon forest, Benue State. Without any ransom paid.
“Contrary to some tweets and unconfirmed stories that some money was paid, no kobo was paid to release them. They were actually rescued tactically and professionally. We commend the security agencies, locals, and ONSA for their commitment and resilience. Thanks to you all. More details soon.”
The kidnappers had threatened to kill the students by Saturday if their parents failed to raise the money.
SaharaReporters reported last week that 20 medical and dental students and a House Officer had been kidnapped in Benue State while en route to the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) annual convention in Enugu.
The Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, had condemned the abduction.
The governor had urged security agencies to act swiftly to rescue the students.
Meanwhile, the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students had listed the names of some of the kidnapped students as follows: Boniface Tizhe, Thomas Yahaya, Gabriel Jita Iwev, Boniface Okon, Dondo Fabian, John Bitrus Naga, Fortune Chima Umeh, Godwin Gregory Tumba, Monica Ejembi.
Others are; Ogbonna George Chukwuebuka, Paul Nyampa Zira, Lawrence Victory Adaugo, Okopi Peter, Enger Benedicta, Kwaghaondo Aondona Kingsley, Paul Shantong, Victoria Cornelius, Pius Samson, Okan Adara and Dr. Luis Mmbamonyeukwu, a House Officer.
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