Benue Government Confirms Rescue of Nine Abducted Worshippers

The government of Benue State has confirmed the rescue of nine worshippers abducted during a midnight vigil at Saint John Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon community, within Ado Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by his Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Solomon Iorpev, Governor Hyacinth Alia commended security agencies for what he described as a swift and effective operation that secured the victims’ freedom. He called the rescue a “significant breakthrough” and assured residents that security forces would continue working with local vigilante groups to prevent further attacks.

The governor also urged residents to share timely information with authorities to help track criminals and improve security across affected communities.

The abduction occurred last Sunday when gunmen stormed the church during a vigil, causing panic among residents. A former councillor representing Ukwuenyo Ward, Emmanuel Udah, described the incident as a targeted attack and said the community had been left traumatised by recurring assaults.

Earlier, police spokesperson Udeme Edet confirmed the kidnapping and said the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, deployed tactical teams alongside local vigilantes to locate the victims. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Following the attack and other security concerns in Benue South, the governor convened a high-level security meeting on February 13, 2026, at the palace of the Och’Idoma in Otukpo, bringing together traditional rulers and top security officials to coordinate response strategies.