Gunmen strike Benue Church, abduct nine

Gunmen have abducted nine worshippers during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church, Ojije, in Utonkon District, Ado Local Government Area, authorities confirmed.

According to residents, the attack, which occurred around 2 a.m. on Saturday, targeted women and youths while prayers were ongoing, plunging the community into panic and mourning.

Comrade Jude Onwe, National Publicity Secretary of the Ufia Development Association, described the incident as shocking, noting that it took place in a location traditionally considered a sanctuary rather than a high-risk area such as a highway or forest.

“This incident has thrown the Utonkon community into fear. Farming, trading, and religious activities have been disrupted by persistent security threats,” Onwe said. He recalled that barely two weeks earlier, a man and a woman were kidnapped in the same area but later released after a N3 million ransom. Residents indicated that the earlier abductors spoke Fulani, though official confirmation on the identity of the attackers is pending.

Confirming the abduction, Chairman of Ado LGA, Sunday Oche, said security agencies had been mobilized to rescue the victims. He urged residents to involve security personnel in night activities, warning that ignoring such advice endangers lives.

“Life is normal now here. The security is working hard on a clue, so it is premature to draw conclusions about the attackers,” Oche stated.

DSP Udeme Edet, Police Public Relations Officer for the Benue Command, said a tactical team had been deployed to rescue the victims and secure the area.

Authorities continue investigations as the community awaits the safe return of the abducted worshippers.