Benue: 14 abducted Igede travellers regain freedom after N1m ransom

Fourteen abducted travellers of Igede origin have been reunited with their families after spending days in captivity following their seizure along the Utonkon–Okpokwu axis of Benue State.

Their freedom reportedly came after a total ransom of N1 million was paid to their captors.

The group was part of 16 passengers from Obi and Oju Local Government Areas who were ambushed at about 7pm on February 9 while travelling toward the South-West region.

During the attack, two occupants were shot dead when the gunmen allegedly fired at the vehicle after the driver failed to stop.

The release was announced by the National Publicity Secretary of the Igede Youth Council, Jairus Awo Otakom, in a statement shared on his verified Facebook page on Tuesday.

He said, “The Igede Youth Council officially announces the release of our brothers and sisters who were abducted on February 9, 2026, along the Utonkon-Okpoga Road. We thank the Almighty for their safe return to their families.”

Otakom explained that the ransom was sourced through joint efforts by the victims’ relatives and the National Union of Road Transport Workers.

“The families of the victims painstakingly contributed N500,000, which was augmented by a N500,000 contribution from the National Union of Road Transport Workers, totalling one million naira paid to the captors,” he said.

He added, “While we celebrate their lives, we remain saddened that ordinary citizens must pay for the security that should be guaranteed by the state.”

The council praised the transport union for demonstrating leadership and providing financial backing and coordination that aided the captives’ release.

It also appealed to the state government to reimburse the affected families and ensure improved security patrols along the Utonkon–Okpokwu corridor to safeguard commuters.

Reacting to the development, Oju Local Government Chairman, Jackson Ominyi, confirmed that the victims had regained freedom but said he was unaware of the exact ransom figure.

“Yes, I was told that they have been released. On the ransom paid, I don’t have the idea, but no amount of money can equal their lives,” he said.

He added, “Remember, two of them lost their lives, but if ransom was paid to secure the others’ release, I don’t think it is a bad thing, though I don’t know the amount.”

Ominyi decried the recurring security breaches along the route and pledged to meet with neighbouring council chairmen to devise stronger strategies to tackle the menace.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, stated that she was yet to obtain full details regarding the release and alleged ransom payment.

“I will get back to you on this report when I get details,” she stated.