BY DAVID ADUGE-ANI, ABUJA

The Federal Government has directed the relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue 20 medical students, who were abducted on Friday in Benue state, on their way to Enugu.

The government also called on perpetrators of the evil activities to desist from such criminal acts and respect the sanctity of human life.

The call is contained in a statement by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, which was made available to newsmen in Abuja on Saturday evening.

The medical students were abducted in Otukpo, Benue state on their way to the annual convention of the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students in Enugu.

The statement, which was signed by the assistant director (information and public relations) in the ministry, Ado Bako, said that the ministry condemns this act of violence in the strongest terms and calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted students.

The ministry noted that the kidnapping of medical students is a setback to the nation’s efforts to strengthen the healthcare workforce, adding that the unfortunate incident is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and students in Nigeria.

The statement maintained that it is crucial to create a safe and conducive environment for healthcare professionals to carry out their duties without fear of violence.

It stated that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare stands in solidarity with the families of the kidnapped students and offers its full support during this difficult time.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of healthcare professionals and students across the country,” the statement added.