Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has confirmed the safe rescue of 15 abducted passengers in the state.
Alia disclosed this on Sunday during a joint briefing with the Police Commissioner, Ifeanyi Emenari, at the Government House in Makurdi.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped on Wednesday, April 15, along the Taraku–Otukpo road but were later rescued unharmed.
The governor explained that 17 persons were initially abducted, but two escaped separately, leaving 15 who were eventually rescued.
Among the victims were eight candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Alia urged JAMB to make special arrangements for the affected candidates to sit their examinations and assured that the state government would fully support the process.
He also directed that the victims receive free medical care and tasked the Ministry of Education with supporting their academic continuity.
Reaffirming the state’s position, Alia said, “Benue remains peaceful, and criminal elements will not be tolerated.”
He commended security agencies for their role in securing the victims’ release.
Earlier, Emenari said eight suspects had been arrested in connection with the abduction.
He noted that credible evidence links seven of the suspects to the crime and other kidnappings in the area.
The Commissioner of Police attributed the rescue to a coordinated security operation and acknowledged support from the Inspector-General of Police and the state government.
