Gunmen Hijack Fully Loaded Bus, Kill Driver, Kidnap Passengers, Leave Toddler Behind

A tragic incident unfolded on Thursday night in Ikobi, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, when gunmen hijacked a fully loaded Benue Links commercial bus, killed the driver, and abducted all passengers on board.

According to eyewitness reports, the attackers ambushed the vehicle on the highway, shooting the driver dead on the spot before herding the passengers into the nearby bush. A toddler was reportedly spared and left behind by the gunmen.

Security agencies have been notified of the attack and are said to be working to locate and rescue the abducted passengers. As of the time of this report, there has been no official statement from state authorities regarding the incident.

In reaction to the attack, Mike Magaji, President of the Ochetoha K’Idoma youth wing, expressed deep frustration over what he described as continued government silence in the face of rising insecurity. He criticized the recent visit of the Benue State Governor to Otukpo, calling it unproductive and lacking in clear direction.

“It is heartbreaking that our people continue to live in fear while the government remains silent. How many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken?” Magaji said. “The governor’s visit to Otukpo was a disappointment. Our people expected leadership, not vague reassurances. We need a clear plan to end these attacks. The government must rise up to its responsibilities. We cannot continue to mourn our people daily while those in power look the other way.”

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Catherine Anene, said she was yet to confirm the incident at the time of filing this report.