MAKURDI – Security concerns have intensified in Benue State following the abduction of six travellers along the Naka–Makurdi road early Tuesday morning. The victims were intercepted at Kula Village, a community located on the outskirts of the state capital.

Details of the Ambush

The victims were part of a group of seven travelling from Ilorin. According to a relative of one of the passengers, the group had opted to sleep in Ankpa, Kogi State, on Monday night to avoid the risks of night travel through the region.

As they resumed their journey Tuesday morning, their vehicle was ambushed by gunmen approximately 20 minutes away from Makurdi. While one passenger managed to escape the scene, the remaining six—three men and three women—were forcibly taken into the bush.

Current Status: The kidnappers have reportedly established contact with the families, demanding a ransom of ₦100 million for the victims' release.

Local Government and Police Response

Omnin Torsar, the Chairman of Gwer West Local Government, confirmed the incident to the press. He noted that the attack occurred around 5:00 a.m. while the victims were travelling in a convoy.

However, the Benue State Police Command has yet to release a formal statement. DSP Udeme Edet, the Police Public Relations Officer, indicated that an official report of the kidnapping had not yet reached her desk.

Rising Insecurity in Benue

This latest incident marks a troubling trend in the state. The Naka–Makurdi road had recently seen improved safety following the deployment of security personnel last year, but this ambush suggests a resurgence of bandit activity.

Other recent abductions in the state include:

 * Ado LGA: Nine worshippers kidnapped from St. John’s Catholic Church in Utonkon.

 * Okpokwu LGA: 14 travellers recently intercepted and abducted.