The House of Representatives has expressed grave concern over the recent abduction of 20 medical students in Benue State, Nigeria, calling for immediate and decisive intervention from the nation’s security agencies.
The spokesperson for the House of Representatives, Akin Rotimi, Jr., conveyed the legislative body’s distress in a press statement on Monday, emphasising the urgency of the situation.
According to reports, the students, 12 from the University of Jos and 8 from the University of Maiduguri, were kidnapped on Thursday, August 15, 2024, while en route to a conference organised by the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) in Enugu.
The abduction has sparked widespread alarm, particularly within the medical community.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) voiced deep concern for the safety and well-being of these young medical professionals.
In a letter addressed to the Inspector-General of Police, NMA Secretary-General, Dr. Benjamin Egbo, highlighted the critical nature of the situation. “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,” he urged.
Dr. Egbo’s letter reflected the growing anxiety within the medical field over the security of its members. “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,” he added.
Also, the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) echoed this sentiment, emphasising the broader implications of the attack.
“As students, we are the future of Nigeria, and an attack on us is an attack on the very future of this great nation,” NANS stated.
The association underscored the vital role that medical students play in the future of healthcare excellence, innovation, and compassion, stressing that their education, safety, and well-being are essential to the nation’s progress.
The House of Representatives spokesperson also noted that the house has aligned itself with the concerns of both the NMA and NANS, calling on the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to mobilise all necessary resources to ensure the safe return of the abducted students.
Dennis Idahosa, Chairman of the House Committee on Healthcare Services, highlighted the broader implications of the abduction.
“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. 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,” he asserted.
The House reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the security and safety of all Nigerians, vowing to continue monitoring the situation closely, with the hope that the students will be returned safely to their families.
Chioma Kalu
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