Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has directed all security agencies to intensify operations following the abduction of nine children during a church service in Utonkon, Ado Local Government Area.
The governor’s directive underscores the urgent need to restore peace and strengthen Benue security amid a surge in violent incidents across the state.
The abduction, which occurred during a midnight prayer at Saint John the Cross Catholic Church, involved six girls and three boys.
According to reports, the gunmen responsible have demanded a ransom of N100 million.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, prompting the state government to convene an emergency stakeholders’ meeting at the palace of the John Elaigwu Odogbo in Otukpo.
The meeting brought together members of the Idoma Traditional Council, senior security officials, and representatives of community organizations to assess the security situation and develop strategies to prevent further threats.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Deputy Governor Sam Ode condemned the attack as “deeply unacceptable” and stressed that safeguarding lives must remain a top priority.
“We must take decisive action to restore safety to our communities,” said Ode.
“Our discussions today will ensure that Benue security is reinforced, and all available resources are mobilized to rescue the abducted children and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
Governor Alia had earlier visited the church to console the families of the victims.
During the visit, he expressed empathy for the parents, assuring them that government officials and security agencies were fully committed to ensuring the safe release of the children.
He urged families not to lose hope, emphasizing that those behind the crime would face the full weight of the law.
“We share in your pain and are determined to act swiftly. Our security agencies are leaving no stone unturned to rescue the children,” the governor stated.
“Benue security remains our top priority, and we will ensure such incidents do not recur.”
The Och’Idoma also addressed the gathering, highlighting growing insecurity in Idoma land and urging security agencies to act decisively.
He stressed the importance of enforcing the Benue State Anti-Open Grazing and Ranches Establishment Law of 2017, describing it as critical to maintaining peace and protecting communities from armed attacks.
Representing the Benue State Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner of Police Asuquo O.S. updated stakeholders on police actions.
He revealed that the Inspector-General of Police had deployed a tactical team to the affected community to support rescue operations.
The officer emphasized that the rescue of the children is being treated with the highest urgency and that all intelligence leads are being actively pursued.
“The safety and recovery of these children is our immediate focus,” said Asuquo.
“We are coordinating with local security personnel and traditional leaders to ensure swift results. Benue security operations are being intensified to restore confidence in the state.”
During the meeting, community leaders called for greater collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions.
They argued that proactive intelligence gathering, community policing, and enforcement of state laws would significantly enhance Benue security and prevent future kidnappings.
Stakeholders also agreed that the government must maintain continuous engagement with local communities to detect and neutralize potential threats before they escalate.
The abduction in Utonkon is not an isolated incident but part of a growing trend of violent attacks in the region.
Security analysts have noted that criminal elements are increasingly bold, exploiting gaps in community monitoring and law enforcement coverage.
The governor’s directive to intensify Benue security measures reflects a broader strategy to address these systemic vulnerabilities and restore public trust in state institutions.
Governor Alia’s administration has reiterated that ensuring the safety of children, residents, and places of worship remains paramount.
The state government has pledged to work closely with the police, military, and other security agencies to implement coordinated response plans.
These plans include rapid deployment units, intelligence sharing, and strengthened community vigilance initiatives.
As security agencies continue operations in Utonkon and surrounding areas, residents remain hopeful that the abducted children will soon be reunited with their families.
The state government has called for calm, emphasizing that justice will be served and that Benue security will be fortified to prevent any recurrence of such incidents.
Ireport247news
