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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the kidnapping of 20 medical students of the Universities of Maiduguri and Jos along the Otukpo-Otukpa-Enugu Road.
NANS President, Lucky Emonefe, in a statement on Saturday said the heinous act remains unacceptable, and sympathised with the families of the abducted students.
He said: “The kidnapping of those students, who were traveling to attend the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students’ annual convention in Enugu is a stark reminder of the escalating insecurity in our nation.
“The fact that the incident occurred despite the presence of security personnel along the notorious Otukpo-Otukpa portion of the federal highway is alarming.”
He disclosed that NANS was engaging with relevant authorities to demand immediate action to rescue the abducted students and ensure their safe release. “To this end, we appeal to the state and federal governments to take concrete steps to address the security challenges facing our nation.
“NANS finds it pertinent to assure Nigerian students that their welfare and safety are the top priorities of our agenda. We understand that this incident may cause anxiety and fear among our members, but we urge you not to panic.” This is “because we are working tirelessly to ensure that your welfare does not suffer, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to ensure the freedom of the abducted students.
“The government must demonstrate its commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerian citizens, particularly students who are the future leaders of our nation.”
He demanded that the perpetrators of the evil act be brought to justice and held accountable for their actions, stressing that NANS would continue to monitor the situation and work with relevant authorities to ensure that the abducted students were rescued and reunited with their families.
Emonefe also called on various stakeholders, including parents, educators, and civil society organisations to join in condemning the act and demanding action from the government.
“Together, we can ensure that our students are safe and secure, and that those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice,” he maintained.
