Ado Local Government Chairman Condemns Kidnapping in Utonkon, Orders Total Security Clampdown, Calls for Calm
The Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Engr. Sunny Oche, has issued a strongly worded condemnation of the reprehensible kidnapping of five innocent persons around the Ikpadra community in Ukwonyo Council Ward, describing the incident as a direct assault on the peace, safety, and collective conscience of the people of Ado.
The Chairman expressed deep outrage over this criminal act, which comes barely days after armed marauders attacked mourners along the Igumale–Ulayi Road, leaving several persons seriously injured and dispossessing them of their motorcycles. According to him, the repeated attacks are “one incident too many” and will no longer be tolerated under any guise.
Engr. Oche assured residents that he is fully on top of the situation, stressing that the security architecture of the Local Government has been placed on maximum red alert. Security operatives are currently combing surrounding bushes and flashpoints with clear directives to secure the immediate and safe rescue of the abducted victims and decisively neutralize the perpetrators. He emphasized that the criminals are being pursued relentlessly and that there is strong hope for a positive outcome.
While acknowledging the fear, pain, and anguish being experienced by affected families, the Chairman called for calm and patience, assuring them that their grief is shared at the highest level of the Local Government. He reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring that justice is served.
The Chairman recalled that kidnapping and related criminal activities had previously been brought under control through a joint security initiative involving the Local Government and the Ukwonyo Community Leadership, following the notorious abduction of 25 medical students in 2024. That decisive action led to the restoration of relative peace across the Local Government. He expressed confidence that the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, code-named Anyam Nyor, will decisively replicate and even surpass those efforts in crushing the current resurgence of criminality.
In a further show of resolve, Engr. Oche pledged his full and unalloyed support to the joint task force deployed to Ado Local Government, stressing that criminal activities capable of embarrassing the Local Government will be confronted head-on. He noted that Ado Local Government serves as the operational base of Anyam Nyor in Zone C Senatorial District, covering nine Local Government Areas, and as such, will not be allowed to become a safe haven for kidnappers and other criminals.
The Chairman assured the people that his administration will go the extra mile; not only to secure the release of the kidnapped victims but also to tighten the noose around all those involved in this heinous crime, working in close collaboration with the Benue State Government and all relevant security agencies.
He further called on residents to remain vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities within their communities, stressing that collective responsibility and timely information are critical to defeating criminal elements.
Ado Local Government, he concluded, will not bow to intimidation, fear, or lawlessness.
Signed,
Innocent Igelle, cLMiH, mPPSN, MCAI
Principal Private Secretary to the Chairman; juliovirgo@gmail.com, 08065365371
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