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Otukpo, Benue State — The abduction of travellers, including candidates registered for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, in Otukpo has drawn a firm response from Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, who has vowed that his administration will not pay any ransom to secure their release.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia condemned the attack as a “horrible act carried out by criminal elements” and assured families that security operatives have been fully deployed to track down the perpetrators.
The Governor was unequivocal in his stance against rewarding criminality.
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“We will not yield to criminal activities. We will continue to take decisive actions to protect lives and property,” Alia declared.
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He stressed that the state government maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards ransom payments, aligning with the Federal Government’s position that paying kidnappers only emboldens criminal gangs and funds further acts of terror.
Tactical Teams Deployed
Governor Alia confirmed that specialised security units have been mobilised for a coordinated rescue mission.
“Tactical teams have been fully mobilised, and coordinated search-and-rescue operations are ongoing to ensure the safe return of all abducted persons,” the statement read.
The Governor added that he remains in close contact with security commanders and has instructed them to “leave no stone unturned” in rescuing the victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Acknowledging the emotional distress caused by the incident, Governor Alia offered words of comfort to the families of the abducted victims, particularly parents of the JAMB candidates.
“We understand the anxiety and pain this incident has caused, particularly to parents whose children were among those abducted. We stand with you at this difficult time and assure you that everything humanly and operationally possible will be done to secure their safe release,” he said.
The Governor urged residents to remain calm, stay vigilant, and support security agencies by providing credible information.
“Security is a collective responsibility. We urge anyone with useful information to come forward and assist the authorities,” Kula stated on behalf of the Governor.
Background: Insecurity in Benue
Benue State has faced persistent security challenges, including attacks from armed herdsmen, bandits, and kidnappers operating from forest hideouts along major travel routes.
The abduction of JAMB candidates—students on the verge of writing crucial tertiary institution entrance examinations—has heightened public outrage and renewed calls for improved security along highways connecting Otukpo to other parts of the state.
What Next?
As search-and-rescue operations intensify, the coming hours are critical. Security sources indicate that tracking operations are focused on forest areas surrounding Otukpo, where the kidnappers are believed to be holding the victims.
The Governor’s firm stance against ransom payments will be closely watched, as such incidents often involve behind-the-scenes negotiations.
For now, families wait in hopeful agony, trusting that the tactical teams deployed will bring their loved ones home safely.
This is a developing story. Ejes Gist News will provide further updates as information emerges from the Benue State Government and security agencies.
