The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that nine worshippers were abducted during a prayer vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District, Ado Local Government Area.
The victims, mostly women and youths, were reportedly taken by armed assailants in the early hours of Sunday around 2:00 a.m., while attending a 30‑day night vigil. Local residents said the attack has left the community gripped by fear.
Police spokesperson DSP Edet Udeme stated that the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, has deployed tactical units in collaboration with local vigilantes to track down the kidnappers and rescue the worshippers safely.
Community leaders condemned the abduction as a targeted attack on innocent church members and urged both the state and federal governments to strengthen security in rural areas. The incident adds to mounting concerns over recurrent kidnappings and insecurity in Benue State.
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