BREAKING: BANDITS ABDUCT NINE WORSHIPPERS DURING NIGHT VIGIL IN BENUE

BANDITS ABDUCT NINE WORSHIPPERS DURING NIGHT VIGIL IN BENUE


Suspected bandits have abducted at least nine worshippers during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon district of Ado Local Government Area, Benue State.

The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Sunday, when armed assailants stormed the church premises at about 2:00 a.m., while the victims—said to include women and youths—were participating in a night vigil.

A local community leader and National Publicity Secretary of the Ufia Development Association, Jude Onwe, confirmed the incident, stating that the attackers forcefully took the worshippers away from the church during the religious gathering.

Confirming the abduction, the Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Sunday Oche, said the incident happened during an ongoing 30-day night vigil programme. He expressed concern that organisers of night activities in the area had continued to ignore repeated advice to involve security agencies.

According to him, local authorities had consistently warned residents to notify security operatives whenever events extend late into the night, particularly beyond 9:00 p.m., in order to reduce security risks.

Oche disclosed that security agencies have since been mobilised and are actively working to rescue the abducted worshippers. He added that while efforts are ongoing, residents must adhere strictly to safety advisories to prevent similar incidents.

The Benue State Police Command also confirmed the attack. The command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, said tactical security teams have been deployed to the affected area to pursue the abductors and secure the release of the victims.

The abduction has heightened concerns over security in parts of Benue State, coming amid renewed fears of violent attacks following last year’s deadly incident in Yelwata community, which drew widespread condemnation.

Security agencies have assured residents that efforts are ongoing to restore calm and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.

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