Gunmen ambushed a Benue Links Nigeria Limited bus en route from Makurdi to Otukpo on Thursday, killing the driver and one passenger, and abducting 12 others, the state-owned transport company has confirmed.
In a statement released Friday in Makurdi, the company’s Information Officer, Mr. Johnson Ehi, detailed the chilling incident, which took place near the Otukpo Burnt Bricks area.
The ill-fated 18-seater bus, bearing registration number PP512, came under attack during its journey, resulting in the death of the driver, Mr. Samuel Agege, and a front-seat passenger.
“Regrettably, the driver of the 18-seater bus, Mr. Samuel Agege, and a front-seat passenger were fatally shot by the attackers,” the statement read.
“While the gunmen attempted to abduct the remaining passengers, three individuals managed to escape, and another passenger had disembarked earlier at Taraku Town before the incident.”
Benue Links management strongly condemned the act of violence and offered condolences to the victims’ families, stating that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the abducted passengers.
“We assure the general public that we are in constant communication with security agencies, who are making concerted efforts to rescue the abducted passengers,” the statement continued.
“We appreciate the swift response of the law enforcement agencies and express confidence in their ongoing efforts to rescue the victims.”
The Benue State Police Command also acknowledged the attack. Police spokesperson SP Sewuese Anene confirmed the report and said more details would be provided as investigations progress.
