By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Gunmen have abducted at least 14 passengers, many believed to be candidates of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), along the Makurdi–Otukpo road in Benue State.
The incident occurred on Wednesday evening when the attackers ambushed a Benue Links bus conveying the victims to their examination centres. According to reports, the gunmen forced the passengers into a nearby forest, while a few individuals, including the driver, managed to escape.
The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed the attack, stating that he is personally leading a rescue operation. He added that tactical teams have been deployed to secure the area and ensure the safe return of the abducted passengers.
The police chief also expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the journey, noting that Benue Links does not operate night services. He alleged that the driver picked up passengers after official closing hours, raising questions about the movement.
In a separate development, gunmen in Kwara State abducted a school proprietor and four farmers in the Odo-Ore community. Residents blamed the incident on alleged informants and the absence of adequate security presence in the area.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims and investigate both attacks.
Meanwhile, the Olojudo of Ido-Ayegunle in Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, Oba Timileyin Ajayi, has disowned all ongoing land sales in the community, warning prospective buyers to exercise caution.
The monarch stated that since ascending the throne, he has neither approved nor authorised any land transactions, stressing that anyone purchasing land does so at their own risk. He clarified that only land sales conducted during the reign of his late father, Oba Samuel Adekanmi Ajayi, are recognised, and such buyers must present valid receipts for verification.
Oba Ajayi further warned that individuals currently selling land in the area are acting without approval and urged the public to verify all claims before engaging in any transactions.
