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A commercial driver, Ochoche Otokolo Ekwu, was tragically killed by a stray bullet on Wednesday evening, 27 November 2025, along the ever-busy Makurdi-Kura Road in Benue State when security operatives foiled a daring kidnap attempt.
According to eyewitness accounts and security sources, a gang of armed men had mounted a roadblock in an effort to abduct travellers. A swift response by a combined team of military and police personnel led to a fierce exchange of gunfire, during which the bandits were overpowered and scattered into the surrounding bushes.
In the chaos of the shootout, one of the bullets struck Ochoche, who was driving past the scene with passengers. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. No passengers in his vehicle were reported injured, and no travellers were successfully abducted during the incident.
The operation was described by security operatives as a major success in the ongoing battle against kidnapping and armed robbery along that corridor, but the death of an innocent citizen has cast a dark shadow over the encounter.
Residents of the area have continued to express mixed feelings, relief that the kidnappers were repelled, but deep sorrow and anger over the loss of Ochoche, a hardworking father known in the Makurdi motor parks for his gentle demeanor.
As condolences pour in for his family, many are once again calling for improved tactics in urban and semi-urban operations to minimize collateral damage and protect innocent lives during such confrontations.
The Benue State Police Command has promised a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stray bullet that claimed Ochoche’s life, while intensifying patrols along the Makurdi-Kura axis and other notorious flashpoints.
Rest in peace, Ochoche Otokolo Ekwu. May the road rise gently to meet you.
