Insecurity Worsens as Bandits Abduct Several Worshippers During Church Vigil in Benue

Suspected bandits abducted at least nine worshippers during a night vigil at St John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area, Benue State.

According to local sources, the attack occurred around 2 a.m. while the church was observing a vigil as part of a 30-day religious program.

Confirming the incident, the National Publicity Secretary of the Ufia Development Association in Ado LGA, Comrade Jude Onwe, said nine worshippers, including women and youths, were taken during the vigil.

“Around 2 a.m., nine worshippers, including women and youths, were abducted from St John’s Catholic Church while they were at the vigil,” Onwe said.

The Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Sunday Oche, who also confirmed the attack, expressed concern that the church did not involve security operatives despite prior warnings.

“We received the sad news of the abduction and I have mobilised all the security agencies. We are working seriously to rescue the victims,” Oche said.

He urged residents to always involve security personnel in night activities, warning that failure to do so increases the risk of attacks. “People often ignore advice to inform the police whenever events such as marriages, burials or festivals extend beyond 9 p.m. This puts lives at risk,” he added.

Reacting to the incident, the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, Udeme Edet, said tactical teams had been deployed to the area.

“Security personnel are on the trail of the abductors, and efforts to rescue the worshippers are ongoing,” Edet said.

The abduction underscores the worsening security situation in Benue State, which has witnessed repeated violent attacks, including the June 2025 massacre in Yelwata that claimed about 200 lives and drew widespread national and international condemnation.