SHOCK AS GUNMEN ABDUCT 14 PASSENGERS, INCLUDING JAMB CANDIDATES, IN BENUE

By— Abdul-Qoyyum Adeshola, Badmus | Pen Blog Media
Date— Thursday, 16th April, 2026 | Shawwāl 18th, 1447 AH


TENSION has gripped parts of Benue State following the abduction of passengers, including candidates of the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), by suspected gunmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo road.

The incident, which occurred at night, involved a commercial bus conveying travellers—some of whom were reportedly heading to their examination centres.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers intercepted the vehicle and forcefully took away several occupants into a nearby forest.

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that 14 persons were abducted during the attack, while some passengers, including the driver, managed to escape.

Police authorities say a rescue operation is currently underway, with security operatives deployed to track down the assailants and secure the safe release of the victims.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of candidates travelling for examinations, especially in areas prone to security challenges.

As of the time of filing this report, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, while efforts by security agencies continue.

Pen Blog Media will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information emerges.

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