Gunmen have kidnapped nine worshippers from St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area, Benue State.
The abduction reportedly occurred on Sunday night while the victims were observing a vigil within the church premises.
Confirming the incident on Monday, a former councillor representing Ukwuenyo Ward in the Ado Legislative Council, Emmanuel Udah, described the attack as a deliberate and well-coordinated assault on the church.
Speaking in a telephone interview with Channels Television, Udah said the worshippers were abducted at a time they were praying, unarmed, and most vulnerable, in what he called a violation of a sacred place meant for peace and refuge.
He added that the incident has left residents of the area deeply traumatised and living in fear, noting that many no longer feel safe.
Udah called on security agencies and relevant authorities to urgently strengthen security measures and halt the recurring attacks across Benue State.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command said its tactical units, in collaboration with local vigilantes, have been deployed to track down the kidnappers and secure the release of the victims.
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