Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has strongly condemned the abduction of several passengers, among them 14 students traveling to sit for their Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations in Otukpo.
Represented by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor labeled the attack as a barbaric crime. He emphasized that targeting civilians, particularly students pursuing their education, is a direct assault on societal values and public safety.
Governor Alia confirmed that specialized tactical units have been deployed to initiate an intensive search-and-rescue mission.
The government is coordinating closely with security commanders to locate the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice. He has reaffirmed his standing order for security forces to clear criminal elements and terrorists from forest hideouts throughout the state.
Addressing the families affected, the governor expressed his empathy for their distress. He promised that the administration is utilizing all available operational resources to guarantee the safe return of the kidnapped students.
The governor urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement by providing relevant information.
He concluded by reiterating his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Benue residents, vowing that the state will not be intimidated by criminal gangs.
