Ojije abduction: Indigenes question Gov Alia, Odeh’s loud silence on Benue South’s insecurity

Public outrage has continued to mount following the abduction of nine Catholic Church worshippers in Ojije, Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area, as residents and social media users have criticised what they described as the loud silence of the Benue State Government.

IDOMA VOICE reports that the victims were abducted during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church, in Ojije, Utonkon District with families later confirming that kidnappers initially demanded ₦100 million before reducing the ransom to ₦30 million.

Several citizens who reacted to reports of the abduction expressed frustration, fear and disappointment over the lack of an official response from Governor Hyacinth Alia and his deputy, Sam Odeh, more than a week after the incident.

Some reactions accused the state government of selective concern.

Oche Dan, said, “Because they are not Tiv nor from Vandekieya Local Government where the governor hails from.

One of the most vocal reactions came from Meddy Olotu Imanoel, who criticised what he described as a failure of leadership and empathy, especially from officials representing the affected zone.

“You know this is what I do. That is why people misunderstand me,” Olotu said. “I can speak to anybody, no matter who you are. Once you are not doing what is right, I will speak.”

He expressed disappointment that the Deputy Governor, who hails from Benue South, has not visibly engaged with the affected communities.

“Anything that happens within your zone, you are supposed to go there, at least to show face so the people know you are with them,” he said. “But look at the many incidents that have happened in Zone C. How many times have we seen the Deputy Governor there? It is quite sad.”

Olotu said his greatest concern remained the welfare of the abducted children, noting that they were still in captivity days after the incident.

“Nine children are still in the bush. They are not big men’s children. If they were, helicopters would be flying morning, afternoon and night,” he said. “These children are suffering. What is their crime? They went to church to pray.”

He added that the kidnappers initially demanded N100 million ransom, a sum he said was far beyond the reach of the affected families.

“Where will the families get such money from?” he asked. “These are children, not adults who can manage hardship in the bush. It is heartbreaking.”

Olotu appealed directly to the Benue State Government to intervene urgently.

“Please, the state government should look into this matter,” he said. “Lives are at stake.”

Popular entertainer and activist, Joseph Oche Udeh, questioned the continued silence of the state’s leadership, particularly the office of the Deputy Governor.
“I want to ask, is he still the Deputy Governor?” Udeh said. “He will not speak, he will not pick calls, and he does not represent us in any capacity. Do we even have a Deputy Governor?”
Meanwhile, the Senate Minority Leader and lawmaker representing Benue South Senatorial District, Dr. Abba Moro, on Thursday visited Ojije community to sympathise with the families of the victims.

Represented by the Senior Legislative Aide to the Senate President, Chief George Alli, Moro expressed deep sorrow over the incident, saying he was devastated upon receiving the news.

He assured the community of collaborative efforts to secure the release of the victims, stressing that he would not abandon his constituents in their moment of distress.

The senator also urged security agencies to redouble their efforts to ensure the unconditional rescue of the abductees and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Meanwhile, the Benue State Government has dismissed claims that Benue South has been marginalised, with the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Mr. Tersoo Kula, describing such allegations as politically motivated.

Kula stated, “No district in the state currently has as much road construction as the Benue South Senatorial District. The Otobi Water Works has been reactivated, over 32 primary healthcare centres are undergoing renovation, and schools at both basic and secondary levels are being developed. Security support has also improved through provision of mobility to agencies operating in difficult terrains. Critics should exercise caution before promoting clannish political sentiments.”

This statement followed reactions from local citizens questioning the government’s silence over the abduction of nine worshippers in Ojije, Utonkon District.