Three passengers injured, hospitalised as armed men attack Benue Links in Otukpo

By Benedicta Aboh

Benue Links Nigeria Limited has confirmed that one of its commercial buses was attacked by suspected gunmen in Otukpo Local Government Area, LGA, of Benue State, resulting in gunshot injuries to three passengers.

The company said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Burnt Bricks area of Otukpo.

The affected vehicle, with registration number PP974, was travelling from Gboko to Otukpo, where it was expected to lodge for the night before continuing its journey the next day.

In a statement issued by the Information Officer of the Company, Johnson Ehi, for the management, the attackers opened fire on the vehicle along the route. “While no life was lost in the unfortunate incident, three passengers sustained gunshot injuries and were immediately rushed to the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Otukpo,” the statement said, adding that the victims are responding well to treatment.

Upon receiving the report, the General Manager of Benue Links Nigeria Limited, Comrade Alexander Fanafa, travelled to Otukpo early on Sunday, January 11, to personally assess the situation and visit the injured passengers at the hospital.

He was accompanied by the Otukpo Business Manager, Mr. Joseph Edache, who had earlier coordinated support for the victims.

Speaking during the visit, Fanafa assured the passengers of the company’s commitment to their welfare. “The management of Benue Links Nigeria Limited will take full responsibility for the medical bills of the injured passengers and ensure their safe conveyance to their destinations once doctors confirm they are fit to travel,” he said.

The General Manager also expressed appreciation to the Chief Medical Director and the management of the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Otukpo, for what he described as their swift intervention and professional handling of the emergency.

He later visited the Otukpo Police Station, where he met with the Divisional Police Officer and other officers of the Nigerian Police Force. Fanafa commended the police for their prompt response to the distress call and urged sustained efforts to tackle criminal activities and improve security along major routes.

Addressing Benue Links drivers at the Otukpo Motor Park, the General Manager restated that the company’s ban on night travel remains strictly enforced. He cautioned that any driver who violates the directive would face disciplinary measures, while advising drivers to comply with traffic rules, drive carefully, and remain alert at all times.

The management of Benue Links Nigeria Limited reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety and assured the public that it will continue to work closely with security agencies to enhance safety across all its operational routes.