At least nine worshipers abducted during a vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Benue. Security forces are pursuing the suspects in ongoing rescue efforts

At least nine worshipers were abducted on Sunday by suspected bandits during a vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area.

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Local sources said the attack occurred around 2 a.m., during a 30-day vigil programme.

The victims included women and youths, according to Comrade Jude Onwe, National Publicity Secretary of the Ufia Development Association in the LGA.

Chairman of Ado LGA, Sunday Oche, confirmed the incident, lamenting that the church did not involve security operatives despite prior advice.

“Our concern is that people refuse to adhere to advice to involve the police whenever a night activity goes past 9 p.m.,” he said.

The Benue State Police Command spokesperson, Udeme Edet, said tactical teams had been deployed to the area to rescue the worshipers. “Security personnel are on the trail of the abductors, and efforts to rescue the worshippers are ongoing,” he added.

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The latest abduction highlights growing insecurity in Benue State, which has faced multiple violent attacks, including the June 2025 massacre in Yelwata that claimed about 200 lives and drew national and international condemnation.