Bandits Launch Early Morning Raid on Benue Church
Suspected bandits have carried out a brazen attack on a Catholic church in Benue State, resulting in the abduction of nine worshippers. The incident occurred in the Utonkon district of Ado Local Government Area, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Details of the Church Invasion
The armed assailants stormed St. John's Catholic Church at Ojije in Utonkon district around 2 a.m. on Sunday, February 8, 2026. According to eyewitness accounts, the bandits invaded the religious facility while the victims were actively participating in a night vigil service.
Jude Onwe, the National Publicity Secretary of the Ufia Development Association in the local government area, provided chilling details of the incident. "Around 2 a.m. on Sunday, those women and youths—about nine worshippers—were abducted from St. John's Catholic Church, Ojije in Utonkon, Ado LGA, while they were at night vigil," he confirmed.
Local Government Response and Security Concerns
The Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Sunday Oche, verified the abduction to news outlets, noting that the incident took place during the early hours of Sunday morning. He revealed that the church had been conducting a 30-day vigil program and expressed regret that organizers had disregarded previous security advice.
"That is what we have been battling with. We received the sad news of the abduction, and I have mobilized all the security agencies, and we are working seriously," Oche stated. He emphasized the importance of involving security personnel during nighttime activities, particularly in vulnerable areas.
The local government chairman elaborated on security protocols that had been previously communicated to residents. "We had earlier advised the people that whoever is conducting any activity, especially at night, must involve security agents. If people hold a program that has been going on for the past 30 days without recourse to security agencies, then they are endangered."
Security Deployment and Rescue Efforts
Benue State Police Command has confirmed the deployment of tactical teams to the affected area. DSP Udeme Edet, the State Command spokesperson, assured the public that security personnel have been mobilized to rescue the abducted worshippers.
"Tactical team already deployed to rescue the victims," the Police Public Relations Officer added, indicating that coordinated efforts are underway to secure the safe return of those taken.
Sunday Oche referenced a previous security incident in the area, noting that similar kidnapping attempts had been thwarted through prompt security intervention. "There was a similar incident where some people attempted a kidnapping, but they were chased and rescued," he recalled, highlighting the effectiveness of proper security measures.
Community Safety Recommendations
The local government chairman expressed concern about community adherence to security guidelines, particularly regarding nighttime events. "We assure that the victims will be rescued. Our concern is that people have refused to adhere to advice to constantly involve the police whenever a night activity—be it marriage, burial, or festival—extends beyond 9 p.m."
This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges facing communities in Benue State and highlights the critical importance of coordinated security measures during religious and social gatherings, especially those occurring during nighttime hours.
