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The Chairman of Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, Engr. Sunny Oche, has disclosed that the armed gang responsible for the abduction of nine worshippers at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon, infiltrated the area from a neighbouring state.
Oche made the revelation in Makurdi during a courtesy visit by members of the Ezza Ezekuna People’s Patriotic Congress (EEPC) to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Joseph Har.
According to him, the victims, who were kidnapped during a night vigil on February 7, regained their freedom a week later without the payment of any ransom, dismissing contrary claims circulating in some quarters.
“The nine Catholic worshippers were abducted by bandits who infiltrated Ado from neighbouring states to perpetrate criminal acts. Through the diligent efforts of the Civil Protection Guards, they were rescued unharmed and without the payment of ransom,” he said.
Engr. Oche commended the professionalism of the security operatives and noted that improved collaboration between the local government and security agencies had strengthened safety in the area. He also acknowledged the EEPC for supporting security operations, particularly through the donation of two combat motorcycles to enhance mobility.
In his remarks, Chief Joseph Har described the efforts of security personnel in Ado as commendable but stressed the need for increased manpower and continuous training.
“As a border local government adjoining neighbouring states, Ado faces unique security challenges. The tactics of criminal elements are constantly evolving,” he said, urging communities to work closely with security agencies to sustain peace.
The successful rescue operation without ransom payment has been hailed as a significant achievement by the Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG) and other security agencies involved.
