According to local sources who spoke to Newsmen on Monday, the attack occurred around 2 a.m., while the church was holding a vigil as part of a 30-day programme

At least nine worshipers were abducted on Sunday by suspected bandits during a vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District, Ado Local Government Area, Benue State.

According to local sources who spoke to Newsmen on Monday, the attack occurred around 2 a.m., while the church was holding a vigil as part of a 30-day programme.

Comrade Jude Onwe, National Publicity Secretary of the Ufia Development Association in the LGA, told our correspondent: “Around 2 a.m., nine worshipers, including women and youths, were abducted from St. John’s Catholic Church during the vigil.”

Confirming the incident, Ado LGA Chairman Sunday Oche lamented that the church had not involved security operatives despite prior advice.

“That is what we have been battling with. We received the sad news of the abduction, and I have mobilized all security agencies.

Efforts are ongoing,” Oche said. He urged residents to involve security personnel in night activities, warning that ignoring such advice puts people at risk. “Our concern is that people often refuse to consult the police whenever night events whether marriages, burials, or festivals extend past 9 p.m.,” he added.

Udeme Edet, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, said tactical teams had been deployed to the area to rescue the victims.

“Security personnel are on the trail of the abductors, and efforts to rescue the worshipers are ongoing,” he said.

The latest abduction underscores the growing insecurity in Benue State, which has experienced multiple violent attacks, including the June 2025 Yelwata massacre that claimed about 200 lives and drew national and international condemnation.

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