Suspected bandits abducted at least nine worshippers on Sunday during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon district of Ado Local Government Area, local sources confirmed on Monday.
Jude Onwe, National Publicity Secretary of the Ufia Development Association in the LGA, said the attackers struck around 2 a.m., targeting women and youths attending the church’s 30-day vigil.
Confirming the incident, Ado LGA Chairman, Sunday Oche, said the abduction occurred in the early hours of Sunday. He noted that security personnel had advised organisers to involve law enforcement during night activities, a warning that was reportedly ignored.
Oche said, “We received the sad news of the abduction and have mobilised all security agencies. Whoever is conducting any night activity must involve security agents, especially programs that extend beyond 9 p.m.”
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DSP Udeme Edet, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, said tactical teams had been deployed to rescue the victims. “Security personnel are on the ground, and efforts to rescue the abducted worshippers are ongoing,” he said.
The incident underscores a resurgence of insecurity in Benue, following the June 2025 massacre in Yelwata, which left about 200 people dead and drew national and international condemnation.
Authorities continue to urge communities to observe security protocols during night events as investigations and rescue operations proceed.