The National Security Adviser, NSA, to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed the release of the 20 medical students kidnapped in Benue State.
Sources close to the office of the National Security Adviser confirmed this to Channels Television on Friday.
According to source, the rescue operation was coordinated by the NSA.
It added that security agencies involved in the rescue mission include the Nigerian police. The Department of State Services, DSS, and military personnel. And also with the support from the Benue State Government.
Recall that President Tinubu who condemned the kidnapping of the students gave a marching order to security agencies to ensure the rescue of the students.
We also reported that the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Koyode Egbetokun sent special investigative squad from Abuja to complement the police effort in Benue State.
Earlier, the police deployed helicopters in an effort to rescue abducted medical students.
Though the NSA source did not give details of the rescue operation. The good news is that the students have regained their freedom.
Recall that the news of the abduction of the students hit the media space last Friday. The news generated reactions from Nigerians who condemned the rising rate of kidnapping in the country.
The medical students from the Universities of Maiduguri and Jos were said to be on their way to Enugu State. They were, however, waylaid at Otukpo area in Benue by bandits.
A few days after their abduction, their captors established contact with the victims’ families. Demanding a ransom of ₦50 million to secure the release of their hostages.
However, responding to calls, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, immediately ordered the rescue of the victims.
The order was contained in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi.
The IGP, while condemning the kidnapping of students, described their abduction as “truly appalling, callous, and unacceptable”.
“In a display of unwavering commitment to the rescue, safety, and well-being of the young Nigerians, the IGP has ordered the prompt deployment of a substantial number of human and technical resources to augment the manpower of the Benue State Command. And ensure the swift rescue of our beloved students.
“This initiative encompasses the mobilization of additional tactical units from the FID-STS and FID-IRT. The deployment of advanced helicopters and drones. As well as the use of specialized tactical vehicles to facilitate the search and secure the safe return of the victims.
“The Nigeria Police Force stands with the victims and their loved ones during this challenging time. And we are committed to ensuring the safe return of the students.
“The Inspector-General of Police reiterates the zeal of the force to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of the perpetrators and others alike. As the Nigeria Police Force is determined to sustain the fight against crimes and criminality, most especially kidnapping of Nigerians.
“The IGP equally appeals to the general public to provide useful information and actionable intelligence that may aid the ongoing investigation and the rescue operation. Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the nearest police station the State’s Command control number. Or the FHQ via Pressforabuja@police.gov.ng and other helplines.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its mission to protect the lives and property of all Nigerians. And it will continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace, stability, and the rule of law throughout the country,” the statement stated.
According to CHANNLES TV, in the past six years, the federal highway from Otukpo through Ugbokolo in the Okpokwu Local Government Area down to Odoba and Otukpa in Ogbadibu Local Government Area has become one of Nigeria’s dangerous roads to travel. This is due to the notorious kidnap syndicate controlling the thick forests and vast ungoverned spaces.
Recall that some weeks ago, the management team of the Benue State Polytechnic Ugbokolo, led by the Rector was kidnapped on that axis.
source: Channels TV
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