Kidnappers of Benue church worshippers came from neighbouring state – LG Chairman

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The delegation and the Security Adviser

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…commends Civil Protection Guards response

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By Peter Duru, Makurdi

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The Chairman of Ado Local Government Area LGA, of Benue State, Sunny Oche, has revealed that the armed gang responsible for the abduction of nine worshippers at St. John’s Catholic Church, Ojije in Utonkon came from a neighbouring state.

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Oche also clarified that the victims, who were kidnapped during a night vigil on February 7, regained their freedom a week later without the payment of any ransom, dismissing contrary claims circulating in some quarters.

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The Council Chairman made this known in Makurdi when he led members of the Ezza Ezekuna People’s Patriotic Congress (EEPPC) on a courtesy visit to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Joseph Har.

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According to him, “the nine Catholic Church worshippers were abducted by bandits who infiltrated from neighbouring states to perpetrate evil acts in Ado. However, through the diligent efforts of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG) they were rescued unharmed and without the payment of ransom.”

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He expressed satisfaction with the response of the BSCPG, noting that their swift action and collaboration with other security operatives led to the successful rescue operation and the arrest of some suspects.

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Oche commended the growing synergy between the local government and security agencies, stating that it has significantly improved safety in the area.

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“We are encouraged by the professionalism and commitment demonstrated by the Civil Protection Guards. Their presence and operational strength have boosted the morale of security personnel and enhanced effectiveness in tackling crime,” he said.

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The chairman also appreciated the EEPPC for supporting security efforts, particularly through the donation of two combat motorcycles to the CPG to improve mobility.

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He, however, called for increased collaboration among stakeholders to tackle emerging security threats, including cattle rustling, kidnapping, and banditry.

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In his response, Chief Har praised the performance of security personnel in Ado Local Government, describing their efforts as commendable.

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“As a border local government adjoining Ebonyi and Cross River states, Ado faces unique security challenges. The tactics of criminal elements are constantly evolving, and this makes continuous training and retraining of personnel very necessary,” Har said.

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He stressed the need to recruit more security personnel to adequately cover the terrain, noting that the current number is insufficient.

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The Security Adviser also lauded the EEPPC for its contributions and urged communities to take collective responsibility for security.

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“Security is a shared responsibility. It should not be left to the government alone. We encourage groups like EEPPC to continue supporting initiatives that promote peace and safety,” he added.

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Har assured that plans were underway to enhance the capacity of security personnel, adding that training teams would be deployed once necessary arrangements are concluded.

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