Bandits abduct 6 travellers on Naka–Makurdi highway, demand N100m ransom

By Johnson Arua

Suspected bandits have abducted six travellers, including four members of the Ansaarudeen Islamic Society, along the Naka–Makurdi highway in Benue State, demanding N100 million ransom for their release.

The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Tuesday near Kula village, about 20 minutes from Makurdi, when the victims’ vehicle was intercepted by armed men.

A relative of one of the abductees, who requested anonymity, said the group had travelled from Ilorin and arrived late in the area on Monday, forcing them to stop over for the night before resuming their journey at about 5 a.m.

“They were six in number — three men and three women. Four of them are members of Ansaarudeen. Shortly after they left in the morning, their vehicle was stopped by gunmen who took them away,” the source said.

Expressing shock over the development, the relative added, “We have always heard about kidnappings, but now it has become our reality. The kidnappers called about two hours later and are demanding N100 million. We are at the mosque praying for their safe return.”

Confirming the incident, Chairman of Gwer West Local Government Area, Mr. Victor Ormin, said he had verified the report of the abduction.

“It is true. I was informed that the travellers left Naka around 5 a.m. in a convoy and ran into bandits along the Naka–Makurdi road. Some of them were abducted,” Ormin stated.

He noted that the attack occurred close to Makurdi but said he could not immediately confirm the exact number of those taken.

Meanwhile, the husband of one of the victims disclosed that negotiations were ongoing to secure their release.

“The kidnappers are insisting on N100 million. We are trying to see what can be done. It is a very difficult situation for the families,” he said.

The latest abduction has heightened concerns over insecurity along the Naka–Makurdi corridor, a route that has witnessed repeated attacks in recent times.

As of press time, the Benue State Police Command had yet to make an official statement on the incident.