NCDC condemns abduction of Benue students, demands swift rescue

By Abel Leonard, Lafia

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC) has condemned the abduction of students who were on their way to sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination in Otukpo, Benue State, describing the incident as disturbing and unacceptable.

The Commission, in a statement issued on Friday, expressed deep concern over the development, noting that the act represents a serious threat to education and human capital development in the North Central region.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr Cyril Yiltsen Tsenyil, speaking on behalf of the Governing Board, Management, and Staff, called for the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted students.

“This heinous and reprehensible act is not only an attack on innocent young Nigerians pursuing their education, but also a serious setback to the collective efforts aimed at advancing learning and human capital development in the North Central region,” he said.

Dr Tsenyil urged security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and bring those responsible to justice without delay.

“We strongly condemn this unfortunate incident and call for the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted students. Security agencies must intensify efforts towards ensuring the safe rescue of the victims and the swift apprehension of those responsible for this dastardly act,” he added.

He further called for enhanced security measures around examination centres and along transit routes to safeguard students and other citizens.

“We also call for strengthened security measures around examination centres and along transit routes to guarantee the safety of students and other citizens,” he stated.

The Commission sympathised with the families of the affected students, as well as the government and people of Benue State over the incident.

“The Commission sympathises with the families of the affected students, the Government and people of Benue State, and all those impacted by this distressing development,” he said.

The NCDC reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, security, and sustainable development across the North Central region, while advocating for safer environments where education can thrive without fear.