At least 20 Nigerian university students were abducted by gunmen in the country's north central region while traveling to a medical conference in the south. The ambush took place in Benue state along the notorious Otukpo road, a hotspot for kidnappings. The students, hailing from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos, were targeted by armed groups that exploit the region's limited security presence.
Kidnappings have become alarmingly common in northern Nigeria, with armed groups frequently carrying out attacks in villages and along major roads. Victims are often released after the payment of hefty ransoms, causing many to avoid road travel altogether. The recent attack has prompted calls from student groups for authorities to secure the safe return of the abducted students.
The specific group responsible for the attack and the whereabouts of the captives remain unknown. Despite the devastating nature of the incident, the police have not provided updates on rescue efforts. Student leaders have expressed shock and condemnation over the senseless act, emphasizing the urgent need for the students' safe release.
