The Nigeria Police have confirmed that no ransom was paid for the release of the 20 medical students who were kidnapped in Benue State on August 15, 2024. The students, from the University of Jos and the University of Maiduguri, were rescued through a tactical operation, according to police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
In a statement on Saturday, Adejobi refuted circulating rumors that a ₦50 million ransom was paid, stating, “Contrary to some tweets and unconfirmed stories that some money was paid, no kobo was paid to release them. They were actually rescued tactically and professionally.”
The students were abducted while en route to a medical convention in Enugu. Their release on Friday night brought immense relief to their families, with one of the victims, Pius Samson, confirming the safe release to his wife, Sheba Bako. The students have since been taken to Abuja for medical check-ups.
Despite the successful rescue, the police have yet to provide detailed information about the operation, including whether any kidnappers were apprehended.
