The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of 14 passengers travelling from communities in the Igede area of Oju and Obi Local Government Areas.

Police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, verified the incident on Monday evening, stating that it occurred along the Okpokwu axis and that security operatives have commenced investigations.

She said the command is actively working to address the situation and track those responsible.

According to reports, the passengers were heading toward the South-West when their vehicle was intercepted at about 7 p.m. by armed assailants.

The attack comes less than two days after nine worshippers were kidnapped during a church vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon, Ado Local Government Area, raising fresh concerns over security in the state.

Sources familiar with the incident disclosed that the travellers had departed from Iheijwo Market in Oju LGA before encountering the attackers along the Utonkon–Ojapo/Okpoga route. During the confrontation, two passengers were reportedly shot and killed.

A local resident who spoke from Makurdi said the gunmen forced the vehicle to stop before leading several occupants into the bush.

The Chairman of Oju Local Government Area, Jackson Ominyi, also confirmed the incident, noting that he received information about the abduction through security channels. He stated that collaborative efforts with authorities in neighbouring Okpokwu LGA had resulted in the rescue of two victims.

Ominyi expressed optimism that ongoing security operations would secure the release of the remaining abductees.

The latest development has intensified concerns among residents over the rising spate of violent attacks and kidnappings across parts of Benue State.