14 Abducted Benue Passengers Freed After Ransom Payment

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Fourteen Igede passengers kidnapped along the Utonkon–Okpokwu axis in Benue have regained their freedom. 

The victims were part of a 16-person group traveling to the South-West when they were ambushed by gunmen on February 9.

The abduction began in tragedy as gunmen opened fire when the driver refused to stop, killing two passengers instantly. The remaining 14 travelers were then forcibly taken into the forest by the attackers.

Igede Youth Council spokesperson, Jairus Awo Otakom, confirmed the release, stating, “The Igede Youth Council officially announces the release of our brothers and sisters. We thank the Almighty for their safe return.”

A ₦1 million ransom was paid to the captors to secure the release. The families of the victims raised ₦500,000, while the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) contributed the balance.

The Council lamented that citizens must pay for security that should be guaranteed by the state. They called on the government to reimburse the families and increase patrols along the dangerous highway.

Oju LGA Chairman, Jackson Ominyi confirmed the survivors’ return but could not verify the specific ransom figure. The Benue State Police Command is currently awaiting further details before issuing a formal report.