“No Ransom Was Paid” — Nigerian Police Confirm Release of 20 Kidnapped Medical Students

The Nigerian Police confirmed the rescue of 20 kidnapped medical students in Benue State, stating that no ransom was paid to secure their release.

The Nigerian Police have announced the successful rescue of 20 medical students who were abducted in Benue State, clarifying that no ransom was paid to secure their release.

In a statement posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Saturday morning, Police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi emphasized that the students were freed through strategic and professional efforts by the security forces. “Contrary to some reports claiming that a ransom was paid, not a single kobo was exchanged for their release. They were actually rescued tactically and professionally,” Mr. Adejobi stated.

Sheba Bako, the wife of one of the freed students, Dr. Pius Samson, confirmed the release in a telephone interview with PREMIUM TIMES. Expressing her gratitude, she said, “I am so happy they have been released. He called us around 11 p.m. last night. He is not yet home because they have taken them to Abuja for a medical check-up. I am so grateful to God that they made it out alive.”

On August 15, a group of 20 medical students from the University of Jos (12 students) and the University of Maiduguri (8 students) were abducted while traveling to Enugu State for the annual convention of the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students. The incident occurred in Otukpo, Benue State, where the students were ambushed by unknown gunmen.

Initial reports suggested that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N50 million for the release of the students. However, the police have firmly denied that any payment was made.

In response to the abduction, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the immediate deployment of additional police resources to bolster the efforts of the Benue State Command. The enhanced security operation aimed to ensure the safe and swift rescue of the abducted students.

While specific details of the rescue operation, including whether any of the kidnappers were apprehended or neutralized, have not yet been disclosed, the police have assured the public that further information will be provided as investigations continue.

READ ALSO: 20 Kidnapped Nigerian Medical Students Rescued by Police

SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, PREMIUM TIMES