Benue Abductions: Father Pleads for Help as Kidnappers Demand N9 Million Each
The father of two victims abducted from a Benue Links bus en route Otukpo has cried out over ransom demands by their captors, who he said are insisting on N9 million for each of his kidnapped children.
The victims were among those seized when armed men intercepted the bus and forced passengers into nearby bush paths.
Days after the incident, the father of two victims said the family is in distress over the matter and had already commenced negotiations with the kidnappers.
The worried father, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said the abductors had repeatedly shifted their ransom demands, worsening the family’s anguish.
He said, “I have two children that were kidnapped in the bus and they have not released any of them. The kidnappers have opened discussions with us.”
Key Takeaways
- The father of two victims abducted from a Benue Links bus en route Otukpo has cried out over ransom demands by their captors.
- Kidnappers are insisting on N9 million for each of his kidnapped children.
- The victims were among those seized when armed men intercepted the bus and forced passengers into nearby bush paths.
- The family is in distress over the matter and had already commenced negotiations with the kidnappers.
- The Benue State Police Command has claimed seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Rising Insecurity in Benue
The abduction of passengers from a Benue Links bus en route Otukpo is not an isolated incident. In recent years, the Benue State has witnessed a surge in kidnapping cases, with armed men often stopping vehicles and abducting passengers.
The increasing insecurity in the region has led to a heightened sense of fear and uncertainty among residents, particularly those who frequently travel along the affected routes.
The victims, who were initially demanded N10 million each, had their ransom demands reduced to N500,000, only to be increased back to N9 million each by the kidnappers.
The father explained, “Even if you sell me, I cannot be worth that N9 million being demanded for each of them.”
The family is now relying on prayers and government intervention, as they are financially incapable of meeting the demand.
The father disclosed that his children were students travelling from Nasarawa State when they were abducted.
Government and Security Intervention
Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command, in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, claimed that seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Part of the statement read, “The Benue State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a significant breakthrough following the kidnapping incident that occurred on April 15, 2026, in Otukpo.”
The statement further revealed that a coordinated joint security operation involving the Police and other sister security agencies is underway, with a targeted search-and-rescue mission in Amla Forest and adjoining areas.
The operation has led to the successful rescue of some of the victims, who are currently receiving medical attention.
Further intelligence gathered in the course of the operation led to the arrest of seven suspects, who are currently in police custody while investigation is ongoing.
Why This Matters
The growing frequency of kidnappings in Benue State highlights the urgent need for improved security measures and effective intervention by the government to ensure the safety of its citizens.
The situation has left many families devastated and struggling to cope with the aftermath of such incidents.
The Benue State government and security agencies must work together to address the rising insecurity in the region and bring an end to these heinous crimes.
By doing so, they can help restore peace and confidence among the residents, ensuring a safer environment for all.