Residents of Tyomu community in Makurdi LGA protest alleged kidnapping of mourners, demand urgent rescue operation and safe release of victims.

Residents of Tyomu community in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State have blocked the Makurdi-Gboko Road in protest over the alleged abduction of 18 mourners travelling to Kogi State for a burial ceremony.

The victims, said to be mostly women, were reportedly kidnapped on Friday evening, September 25, along the Makurdi-Naka-Adoka-Ankpa Road, shortly after passing through Adoka.

The incident has triggered anger and anxiety in the community, with residents calling on the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to locate the victims and secure their immediate release.

According to reports, the abductors have contacted the victims’ families and demanded a ransom of ₦30 million.

Community members were reportedly able to raise and pay ₦3 million in an attempt to secure the victims’ release. However, the abductors allegedly refused to free them after receiving the money.

In response, residents took to the highway, blocking the road and causing significant traffic disruption. Motorists were reportedly stranded for hours as protesters demanded urgent government intervention.

Some of the demonstrators carried fresh palm fronds, a traditional symbol of mourning and protest in parts of the region, while calling for decisive action to rescue the abducted mourners.

The Benue State Government confirmed that an abduction had taken place but said the exact number of victims had not yet been established.

Joseph Har, Special Adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Security and Internal Affairs, confirmed the incident and said security agencies had been notified.

He said the Divisional Police Officer in Adoka, alongside other security operatives in the surrounding areas, was working to establish the circumstances of the incident and locate the victims.

The state government also appealed to residents to remain calm while security agencies continued their efforts.

The latest incident has renewed concerns over the safety of travellers along major routes linking communities in Benue and neighbouring states, particularly amid persistent reports of kidnapping in parts of the region.

Residents are now urging authorities to intensify surveillance and security operations along the route to prevent further attacks and ensure the safe return of those abducted.