From Joseph Uchenna, in Makurdi
At least 9 persons have been reported abducted at the weekend in Ojije, Utonkon Ado local government area of Benue State.
The National Publicity Secretary, Ufia Development Association, Comrade Jude Onwe told newsmen on phone on Monday that the incident occurred on Saturday at about 2am while the women, children and youth were observing night vigil.
He said the abducted persons were worshippers of St. John’s Catholic Church, Ojije in Utonkon, Ado LGA, adding that two(2) weeks ago, at about the same hour also, a man and a woman were kidnapped but they paid 3 million as ransom for their released.
People are living in fear in Utonkon. It is suspected to be Fulani people because the victims that were released the last time, said the peoole were speaking like fulani.
Confirming the incident, the local government chairman, Engr Sunday Oche said, “yes it is true. That is what we have been battling with. We received the sad news of the abduction and I have mobilized all the security agencies and we are working seriously.
“We had advised the people that whoever is conducting any activity especially in the night, must involved security agents. If people hold a program that have been going on for the past 30 days without recourse to security agencies, then they are endangered.
“We had an incident where some people attempted a kidnap but they were chased and rescued. This incident in question, we assure that the victims will be rescued. Our concern is that people have refused to adhere to advice to constantly involve the police whenever this night activity either marriage, burial or festival should not exceed 9pm.
“We can’t be flippant in casting aspersions because if you have suspicion you must have a concrete evidence. The security is working very hard on a clue, so it is very premature to say it out now.
“Life is now here. It is not a heightened situation as such. These are things the have happened intervally across the country and ours here is properly managed to ensure that it does not escalate”.
Police Public Relations’ Officer PPRO, DSP Udeme Edet also confirmed the incident and promised to give more detailed.
