Nigeria: Nine worshippers abducted from Benue Catholic church

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

In the early hours of Sunday, around 2 a.m., gunmen stormed St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District, Ado Local Government Area, Benue State, and forced nine people—mostly women and youths—into the surrounding forest. The victims were taking part in a 30‑day prayer vigil when the attack occurred, leaving the community in shock and fear. Residents say daily life, farming and trading have been disrupted as families await news of their loved ones.

Jude Onwe, National Publicity Secretary of the Ufia Development Association, described the abduction as “a stark reminder of the growing insecurity confronting rural communities across Benue.” He urged both federal and state governments to act decisively and called on security agencies, religious bodies, civil‑society groups and human‑rights organisations to assist in the rescue effort.

Ado council chairman Sunday Oche confirmed the incident, saying he had “mobilised all the security agencies” immediately after receiving the report and that a tactical team has been deployed to track the kidnappers and secure the area. He also warned residents not to hold night‑time gatherings without security presence, noting that such events should end by 9 p.m. 

Benue State Police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet verified the abduction and said the command’s tactical units are on the ground, with investigations ongoing. She added that details are still being compiled and further updates will be provided as they become available. 

The incident follows a pattern of recent attacks on places of worship in the region, prompting calls for stronger protection of religious gatherings and improved security infrastructure in rural areas.