The Benue State Government has officially confirmed the rescue of nine church worshippers who were abducted during a midnight prayer session in Ado Local Government Area of the state.
The victims were kidnapped last Sunday at Saint John Catholic Church in the Ojije area of Utonkon community, an incident that sparked widespread fear and tension across the locality.
In a statement issued by the Governor’s Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Solomon Iorpev, Governor Hyacinth Alia praised the security agencies for their swift and coordinated response, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against criminal activities.
Governor Alia assured residents that the state government remains fully committed to strengthening security across vulnerable communities. He emphasized that collaboration between security agencies and local vigilante groups would continue in order to prevent further attacks and curb kidnapping.
The governor also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could aid security agencies in tracking down criminals and dismantling their networks.
Following the abduction and a series of security breaches in Benue South, the governor convened an emergency high-level security meeting on February 13, 2026, at the Palace of the Och’Idoma in Otukpo. The meeting brought together traditional rulers and top security officials, where firm directives were issued to ensure the immediate rescue of the abducted worshippers.
A former councillor representing Ukwuenyo Ward, Emmanuel Udah, had earlier described the abduction as a deliberate and calculated attack on the church, noting that residents were deeply traumatised and increasingly fearful.
He urged authorities to intensify security efforts in the area, warning that repeated attacks were leaving communities feeling abandoned and unsafe.
Earlier, the state police command confirmed the incident, stating that tactical units were deployed alongside local vigilantes to track the kidnappers and secure the victims’ release. Investigations into the incident are still ongoing.
Be the first to comment