A violent ambush on the Utonkon–Ojapo/Okpoga Road has left two passengers dead and at least 12 others abducted, barely 24 hours after nine worshippers were kidnapped from St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon, during a night vigil.
The attack targeted a commercial bus carrying 16 passengers from Oju and Obi Local Government Areas.
A youth leader in Utonkon, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the travellers departed Iheijwo Market in Oju around 7 p.m., full of hope for a safe journey.
“They left Iheijwo Market about 7 p.m., but unfortunately ran into kidnappers along the Utonkon road,” he said.
According to him, the attackers flagged down the bus, but the driver attempted to flee. Gunmen opened fire, killing two people instantly, before forcing the remaining passengers into the bush.
The kidnappers reportedly seized the passengers’ phones to prevent communication with relatives or authorities. While 14 passengers were initially taken, two later regained freedom under unclear circumstances, leaving 12 still in captivity. The abandoned vehicle was later taken to Utonkon Police Station.
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Confirming the incident, Oju Local Government Chairman Jackson Onmiyi said the attack occurred near the boundary between Ado and Okpokwu councils.
“Two of the victims were rescued alive, but sadly, two others were killed. Search operations are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining twelve,” he said.
Onmiyi commended the swift response of the Okpokwu council chairman, which aided the rescue of the survivors. “We are doing everything possible, in collaboration with security agencies, to ensure the abducted passengers are rescued safely,” he added.
The latest attack underscores the growing insecurity along Benue State roads, raising urgent calls for intensified security measures to protect commuters.