The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the kidnapping of over 20 medical students from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos, in Benue State on their way to the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) annual convention in Enugu.
NANS expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with the government to find solutions, reports Nigerian Tribune.
This was contained in a statement signed by the NANS senate president, Okunomo Henry Adewumi today in Kano.
The statement reads, “This heinous act is a stark reminder of the growing insecurity in our nation, echoing the recent abduction and killing of passengers in Ondo State, as well as the brutal murder of a farmer at Oba Akoko in Ondo State by herdsmen.
“We express our deepest sympathy and solidarity with the victims and their families, and demand that the government takes immediate and proactive measures to address these senseless acts of violence and prevent future occurrences.
“As the representative body of Nigerian students, NANS is committed to advocating for students’ safety and welfare.
“We remind the government of its obligations under the right to education and the national security strategy to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, particularly students.
“We call for immediate rescue of the abducted individuals, increased security presence in vulnerable areas of Benue and Ondo States, improved intelligence gathering, sharing enhanced protection for schools, medical facilities, and communities.”
The NANS also demanded for prosecution of perpetrators, collaboration among security forces, educational institutions, government agencies and increased funding for security measures and infrastructure.
The organisation also urged the governors of the affected states to work closely with federal authorities to address the security challenges facing their states.
While the body said that the associations are willing to engage in dialogue with the government to find solutions but will not hesitate to take action, if possible amendments are not in place.
