Bandits kidnap nine worshippers in Benue community

From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi

Not fewer than nine worshippers have been kidnapped from St. John’s Catholic Church, Ojije, in Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area (LGA), of Benue State.

It was said that the incident which took place on February 7, 2026, have left Utonkon people and their neighbours living in fear with some families broken, women and children traumatized while farmers, traders, worshippers, now feel unsafe.

Speaking to newsmen on phone on Monday, the National Publicity Secretary, Ufia Development Association, Ado LGA, Comrade Jude Onwe narrated that “Around 2am on Saturday, February 7, 2026, nine worshippers including women and youths, were abducted from St. John’s Catholic Church, Ojije in Utonkon, Ado LGA while they were at a vigil.”

He recalled that barely two weeks ago, at about the same hour also, a man and a woman were kidnapped but they paid ransom of N3 million and were released.

He lamented that people are living in fear in Utonkon adding that the perpetrators are suspected to be Fulani people because the victims that were released the last time said the peoole were speaking like Fulani.

The Chairman of Ado LGA, Sunday Oche has confirmed the incident saying nine persons were abducted.

Oche said “Yes it is true. That is what we have been battling with. We received the sad news of the abduction and I have mobilized all the security agencies and we are working seriously.

“We had advised the people that whoever is conducting any activity especially in the night, must involve security agents. If people hold a programme that have been going on for the past 30 days without recourse to security agencies, then they are endangered.

“We had an incident where some people attempted a kidnap but they were chased and rescued. This incident in question, we assure that the victims will be rescued. Our concern is that people have refused to adhere to advice to constantly involve the police whenever this night activitiea hold and either marriage, burial or festival should not exceed 9pm.”

The chairman said security agencies are working very hard on a clue saying “life is normal now here.”

Meanwhile, the Police in Benue state has also confirmed the incident.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Benue Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet said a tactical team has already been deployed to rescue the victims.