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A Benue State court has convicted and sentenced nine out of ten suspects arrested in connection with the abduction of worshippers during a night vigil at St. John Catholic Church in Ojeiji community, Ado Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred during a church vigil and sparked widespread concern over security in the area, prompted a swift and coordinated response from joint security operatives. Acting on credible intelligence, authorities launched targeted operations that successfully rescued all nine kidnapped victims unharmed and without casualties.
The Police Intelligence Response Team led the initial phase of the crackdown, arresting four suspects and recovering AK-47 rifles along with ammunition. Continued investigations led to additional arrests, bringing the total number of suspects to ten.
Key among those apprehended were Abubabakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim, whose arrests provided critical leads that helped authorities dismantle the criminal network behind the abduction.
Following arraignment, nine of the suspects were convicted and sentenced to varying prison terms, while one suspect remains in custody awaiting trial.
Reacting to the outcome, the Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Engr. Sunny Oche, commended the security agencies including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), and local vigilantes for their professionalism and determination in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The chairman also extended appreciation to Governor Hyacinth Alia, the Inspector General of Police, and Deputy Governor Sam Odeh for their leadership and support in ensuring accountability and restoring public confidence.
Engr. Oche described the convictions as a clear reflection of a strong commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stating that the outcome would go a long way in deterring similar criminal acts in the future. He further acknowledged the spiritual support and prayers offered by Bishop Michael Ekwwoyi Apochi throughout the ordeal and investigation.
The statement was issued and signed by Aluma Moses, Special Adviser on Media and Strategic Communication to the Ado Local Government Council.
The successful rescue, arrests, and subsequent convictions have been widely welcomed in Ado LGA and across Benue State as a significant step toward enhancing security and demonstrating that criminal elements will face the full weight of the law.
