Bandits kill 2, abduct 14 passengers in Benue fresh attack

Suspected bandits have abducted at least 14 passengers travelling through Benue State in yet another incident highlighting the growing insecurity on Nigerian highways.

The victims were reportedly on a journey from the Igede axis of Oju and Obi Local Government Areas, heading towards the Southwest, when their trip was abruptly cut short by armed attackers.

According to reports, the vehicle conveying the passengers was intercepted along the Okpokwu axis of the state at about 7 p.m. on Monday.

This is coming less than 48 hours, nine worshipers were kidnapped during a vigil at St John’s Catholic Church, Ojije in Utonkon, Ado LGA of the state.

Our correspondent learnt that two of the passengers were shot and died instantly during the attack.

A local source who spoke to our correspondent in Makurdi on the phone said, “They departed Iheijwo Market in  Oju LGA, around 7 pm, and the driver passed through Utonkon-Ojapo/Okpoga road in Benue State, when the kidnappers stopped them and took 15 passengers into the bush.

“One person was shot dead when the driver refused to stop.”

The chairman of Oju Local Government Area, Jackson Ominyi who confirmed the incident to our correspondent on Tuesday, said that he was told that two people were killed.

He said, “My security officer called me a few hours ago and told me that some of our people were abducted around the Okpokwu axis.

“I have been trying to reach my colleague in Okpokwu LGA, but not yet connected, but I have contacted the personnel of the Directorate of State Security Service in the area.

“I learnt that two of the passengers were killed and the bandits whisked away the remaining passengers.

The Police Public Relations Officer for the state command, Udeme Edet, did not confirm or deny the report.

She simply said, “I will get back to you on this information,” but yet to do so as of the time of filing this report.

The recent insurgency in the state has raised fresh concerns about worsening security across the state.

More details to follow..