Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, has appealed to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to consider setting a new date for eight students (three girls and five boys) who regained freedom after spending several days in captivity having been kidnapped on their way to Otukpo to sit for the examination.
The Governor made this appeal Sunday in the Old Banquet Hall of Government House Makurdi when he received the victims consisting of the students and other passengers who were rescued following a joint operation by security agencies.
The incident, which occurred on 15th April, 2026 along the Taraku axis in Gwer-East Local Government Area, led to the abduction of passengers by criminal elements.
Speaking further, Governor Alia said, “I am pleased to confirm that, following sustained and coordinated operations by our security agencies, all the abducted persons have been safely rescued.
“I commend the Commissioner of Police, the Nigerian Army, DSS, Civil Defence, the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, and local vigilante groups for their professionalism, resilience, and effective collaboration. I also acknowledge the critical support of local communities, whose cooperation contributed significantly to the success of this operation.”
While directing that all the victims be taken to Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) to enable them to undergo immediate medical evaluation to ensure their full recovery, the Governor assured that the Benue State Government will extend the necessary support to the students in their academic pursuit.
Speaking further, Governor Alia assured that his administration remains firmly committed to the protection of lives and property across Benue State adding that, “We will continue to strengthen security operations, clear identified criminal hideouts, and ensure that our roads and communities are safe for all our people.”
He expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the Inspector General of Police for their swift response and reinforcement during the operation.
“Let me reiterate that we will not relent until lasting peace and security is fully restored across our dear state,” the Governor stated.
Speaking shortly before handing over the rescued victims to the Governor, the Commissioner of Police, CP Enemari explained that following the incident, they had received marching orders from the Governor and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to ensure that the victims were rescued unhurt which they did.
CP Emenari attributed the success to the intentional leadership being provided by Governor Alia.
He further assured that the Nigeria Police Force is not resting on its oars, in collaboration with other security agencies, in its efforts towards ridding Benue State of bad elements.
Seven suspects connected to the abduction are currently in custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations as revealed CP Emenari.
Meanwhile, Governor Alia has directed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend all remaining accomplices and dismantle the criminal networks responsible.
