by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Authorities of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) have confirmed the safe rescue of eleven students and one House Officer from the University, who were among the 20 medical and dental students abducted in Otukpo, Benue State, on Thursday, 15th August, 2024.
A statement was issued and signed by the Senior Deputy Register, Abdullahi Abdullahi, indicating that, the students and House Officer were on their way to Enugu State to participate in the Annual Convention of the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FEDCAMDS) when the unfortunate incident occurred.
They commanded the swift and coordinated efforts of the Security Agencies, saying that the Students and House Officer were rescued along with their colleagues from the University of Maiduguri.
“Vice-Chancellor of UNIJOS, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, who has been actively and tirelessly interfacing with the security agencies since the news of their abduction broke, has already met with the rescued students in company of other officials of the University.”
According to the statement, “Upon receiving the report of the kidnapping, the University had duly informed the relevant Security Agencies, including the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Military and, thereafter, also established communication with the Parents and Guardians of the affected Students, ensuring they were kept informed and reassured of the institution’s commitment to bringing their loved ones back safely.
“Throughout this period, the Vice-Chancellor had directed the Directorate of Students Affairs to be in continuous liaison with the Parents, providing updates and gathering information critical to the rescue efforts. The collaboration extended to Religious leaders for additional support.
“The University expresses its gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who directed that the Students must be rescued; the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police and the Governor of Benue State, who coordinated the efforts of the Security Agencies, and all those who worked in various capacities to rescue the Students and the House Officer. We also appreciate Nigerians, who prayed for this rescue.
“The University truly appreciates the Parents and Guardians of the affected Students for their patience, understanding and trust in the measures and processes taken, which led to the safe rescue of the Students.
“The Students are currently in Abuja undergoing medical evaluation before being reunited with their Parents and Guardians.
“The thoughts of the University Management and all members of the University community are with the rescued Students and their families, as they undergo this process of medical evaluation, recovery and healing, as we look forward to their safe return to school.”
It also assured that the University of Jos remains resolute in its effort to assist all relevant authorities towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all its Students and Staff.