Gunmen hijack fully loaded bus, murder driver, kidnap travellers in Otukpo, Benue State

A fully loaded Benue Links bus was hijacked by gunmen suspected to be Fulani Herdsmen on Thursday night in Ikobi, Otukpo Local Government Area, Benue State, murdering the driver and taking all the passengers hostage.

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Sources revealed that the attackers ambushed the bus along the highway, shot the driver dead, and then dragged the passengers into the jungle. However, it has been alleged that the kidnappers spared a toddler behind.

Security agencies have been notified and are reportedly monitoring the victims’ whereabouts,  although officials are yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.

Mike Magaji, the president of the Ochetoha K’Idoma youth group, responding to the most recent attack by lamented over the state government’s passivity over the state’s murders.

He stated that the state governor did not make any meaningful speech during his visit to Otukpo on Thursday.

He said, “It is heartbreaking that our people continue to live in fear while the government remains silent. How many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken?

“The governor’s visit to Otukpo was a disappointment. Our people expected leadership, not vague reassurances. We need a clear plan to end these attacks.

“The government must rise up to its responsibilities. We cannot continue to mourn our people daily while those in power look the other way.”

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As at the time this report was filed, Catherine Anene, the public relations officer for the Benue Police, told DAILY POST that she had not yet verified the occurrence.

Following this, the state-owned transportation business Benue Links Nigeria in a statement signed by the company’s Information Officer, Ehi Daniel has condemned the terrible attack and subsequent hijack by gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen while it was traveling from Makurdi to Otukpo.

He said: “Regrettably, the driver of the 18-seater bus, Mr Samuel Agege, and a front-seat passenger were fatally shot by the attackers.

“While the gunmen attempted to abduct the remaining passengers, three individuals managed to escape, and another passenger had disembarked earlier at Taraku town before the incident.

“The management of Benue Links Nigeria Limited extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and stands in solidarity with those whose loved ones remain in captivity.