Makurdi, Benue State - Terror gripped the Otukpo-Enugu road on Thursday, January 11, 2024, as gunmen ambushed three commercial buses and abducted 45 passengers at gunpoint. The incident, which occurred near Orokam in Ogbadigbo Local Government Area of Benue State, has sparked outrage and renewed calls for improved security in the region.
Eyewitness Accounts Paint a Harrowing Picture:
According to eyewitnesses, the three fully-loaded buses were forced to stop by the gunmen who emerged from nearby forests. Passengers were dragged out and herded into the attackers' vehicles, leaving behind only a scene of shock and despair.
"It was like something out of a movie," said one driver who narrowly escaped the ambush. "They just came out of nowhere, shooting in the air and yelling at everyone to get out."
Families in Anguish, Negotiations Begin:
The families of the abducted passengers are now in deep anguish, fearing for their loved ones' safety. Authorities have confirmed the incident and are currently in communication with the kidnappers.
Negotiations for the release of the hostages are reportedly underway.
Rising Insecurity Threatens Lives and Livelihoods:
This latest abduction adds to a growing list of similar incidents that have plagued the Benue-Enugu road and other parts of the region in recent times. The increasing insecurity has not only threatened the lives of travelers but also disrupted commercial activities and instilled fear in the hearts of local residents.
#BenueUnrest #EnuguAbduction #PassengerSafety #StopTheViolence #SecureOurRoads #PrayForBenue
Call to Action:
Concerned citizens are using social media platforms to raise their voices and demand action from the authorities. The hashtags #BenueUnrest, #EnuguAbduction, and #PassengerSafety are trending online, with many calling for an immediate response to address the escalating insecurity in the region.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective security measures and increased patrols along the Benue-Enugu road and other vulnerable areas. The safety of passengers and the peaceful conduct of business cannot be compromised by the actions of criminal gangs.
We urge the authorities to take swift action to locate and rescue the abducted passengers, bring the perpetrators to justice, and implement long-term strategies to ensure the safety of all Nigerians who travel and live in this region.
Together, we can raise awareness, demand accountability, and work towards a future where everyone can travel without fear.
#EndTheCrisis #ProtectOurPeople #NigeriaUnited
