Fourteen travellers who had been kidnapped whereas journeying from Benue State to the southern a part of the nation have regained thier freedom.
The victims had been launched after spending 10 days in captivity.
The travellers had been reportedly ambushed on February 9, 2026, alongside the Utonkon/Okpoga Highway in southern Benue.
In keeping with studies, the attackers opened fireplace when the motive force refused to cease, killing two passengers earlier than taking the remaining 14 to an undisclosed location.
Confirming their launch, Jairus Awo Otakom, nationwide publicity secretary of the Igede Youth Council (IYC) disclosed {that a} ransom of N1 million was paid to safe the victims’ freedom.
Otakom, who introduced the event on his verified Fb web page, decried the safety state of affairs on the Utonkon-Okpoga street, warning that the route should not proceed to function a “pay-to-pass” hall for kidnappers.
The council referred to as on the Benue State Authorities to reimburse the affected households, noting that that they had endured each emotional trauma and {financial} hardship.
The IYC additionally urged authorities to deploy seen army and police personnel to the world to stop additional assaults.
“We thank the Almighty for his or her secure return to their households. On the phrases of launch, we should state for the report that this freedom got here at a big value. The households of the victims painstakingly contributed N500,000, which was augmented by a N500,000 contribution from the Nationwide Union of Highway Transport Staff (NURTW), totalling N1,000,000 paid to the captors. Whereas we have a good time their lives, we stay saddened that odd residents should pay for the safety that must be assured by the state.
“The IYC extends its deepest gratitude to the management and members of the Nationwide Union of Highway Transport Staff (NURTW). Your proactive management, {financial} assist, and tireless coordination had been instrumental in navigating this disaster,” the assertion learn.
When contacted, the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Edet Udeme, stated he would supply additional particulars later.
The incident comes amid ongoing safety considerations within the state. Not too long ago, 9 worshippers kidnapped throughout an evening vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Utonkon, Ado Native Authorities Space, had been additionally launched.