Worshippers Abducted During Church Vigil In Benue
Gunmen attacked Saint John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area in Benue State, on Sunday night, abducting nine worshippers during a vigil.
The incident happened while prayers were ongoing, throwing the quiet community into shock and fear.
The attack left residents distressed as families struggled to come to terms with what happened.
A former councillor who represented Ukwuenyo Ward, Emmanuel Udah, confirmed the incident and described it as “a targeted and planned crime against the Church, when innocent worshippers were at the most sacred ground, a place of worship, a place for peace, and refuge, only to be abducted, while praying, vulnerable and unarmed”.
According to him, the attack reflects a wider pattern of insecurity affecting rural communities in Benue State.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the abduction, saying nine worshippers were taken.
Police spokesperson Udeme Edet said the commissioner of police has deployed tactical teams with local vigilantes to track the attackers and rescue the victims, assuring residents that efforts are ongoing.
