A deadly attack occurred on Thursday night in Ikobi, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, where armed men hijacked a fully loaded Benue Links bus. The attackers shot the driver dead before taking all passengers into the bush. However, a toddler was left behind at the scene.
Eyewitnesses said the gunmen ambushed the vehicle along the highway, forcing it to stop before carrying out the assault. The driver was shot on the spot, and the assailants quickly moved the passengers into the surrounding forest. A source revealed that a young boy was spared but was left behind, while the rest of the passengers were taken away.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident, but reports indicate that security agencies have been notified and efforts are underway to track down the kidnappers and rescue the victims.
Reacting to the latest attack, the president of Ochetoha K’Idoma youth wing, Mike Magaji, expressed frustration over what he described as the government’s lack of action in addressing the growing insecurity in the state.
He said, “It is heartbreaking that our people continue to live in fear while the government remains silent. How many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken?
“The governor’s visit to Otukpo was a disappointment. Our people expected leadership, not vague reassurances. We need a clear plan to end these attacks.
“The government must rise up to its responsibilities. We cannot continue to mourn our people daily while those in power look the other way.”
