All 13 remaining passengers abducted from a Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road have regained their freedom, bringing relief to families and communities following days of uncertainty.
Among those released were about eight candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board who were travelling to sit for their examinations when the incident occurred last Wednesday.
The victims were reportedly held captive for three days after armed men intercepted the 18-seater vehicle en route to Otukpo in Benue State. Although authorities have yet to disclose full details of the operation, sources indicated that the passengers were freed in the early hours of Sunday.
Security operatives had intensified search and rescue efforts in the area in the days leading up to the development, which ultimately resulted in the victims’ release.
Following their rescue, the passengers were immediately evacuated for urgent medical attention and are currently receiving treatment at the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital in Otukpo.
Confirming the development, the Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, assured that further details would be made available to the public in due course.
The incident had sparked widespread concern, particularly due to the involvement of students travelling for a national examination, highlighting ongoing security challenges on major highways.
What you should know
The rescue of the abducted passengers, including JAMB candidates, highlights ongoing security concerns on highways in Nigeria, particularly in Benue State.
While their release brings relief, the lack of clarity surrounding how they regained freedom raises questions about the methods used—whether through security operations or other means. The incident underscores the vulnerability of travellers, especially students, and the urgent need for stronger security measures on major routes.
Authorities’ next steps, including investigations and preventive strategies, will be critical in restoring public confidence and preventing similar incidents in the future.
