Gunmen kidnap nine Catholic worshippers from St John’s Church in Utonkon, Benue

Gunmen suspected to be bandits abducted nine worshippers from St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State during a night vigil in the early hours of Sunday.

The attackers reportedly stormed the church around 2 a.m. while congregants were praying, causing panic before taking nine victims, including women and youths, from the premises.

Confirming the latest abduction, the Chairman of Ado LGA, Mr. Sunday Oche, described the incident as unfortunate, noting that the council had taken swift action.

“The incident is true. That is what we have been battling with. Once we received the sad news, I mobilized all the security agencies, and we are working seriously to ensure the victims are rescued,” Oche said.

He also warned residents against organizing night activities without security coverage. “Any programme held at night, whether marriage, burial, or festival, must involve security agencies and should not exceed 9 p.m., otherwise people are endangered,” he cautioned.

Oche further urged restraint in assigning blame, saying, “We cannot be flippant in casting aspersions. Security agencies are working on credible clues, and it is premature to draw conclusions now.”

Benue State Police Command spokesperson DSP Edet Udeme confirmed the abduction, adding that tactical police teams and local vigilantes have been deployed to pursue the abductors and secure the victims’ release. She noted that details are still being compiled and promised further updates.

Police confirmed that no fatalities were recorded during the attack. Authorities say there are currently no confirmed ransom demands or updates on the rescue of the abducted worshippers.