Bandits continue their relentless assaults on Benue communities with an attack last Wednesday on the residence of the Catholic Bishop of Otukpo Diocese where they allegedly abducted a seminarian identified as Mr Kelvin Ochai. In a statement issued Friday July 31, Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Rev. Fr. Joseph Aboyi Itodo, confirmed the attack and disclosed that the seminarian was taken away by the gunmen during the invasion. The Bishop of Otukpo Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and called on Christians and well-meaning Nigerians to pray for the victim’s safe and speedy release. The statement said, “Bishop Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, who is deeply saddened by this unfortunate development, has called on all Christ’s faithful in the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo and all people of goodwill to earnestly pray for the seminarian’s quick and safe release.” The diocese also prayed for the freedom of other Nigerians currently being held captive by kidnappers and criminal groups across the country, urging the faithful to remain steadfast. The attack adds to growing concerns over insecurity in Benue State, where kidnappings and violent attacks have become increasingly frequent. The latest incident comes just days after suspected armed herders reportedly killed at least three people and injured two others in separate attacks on the Elulu and Agadagba communities in Ohimini Local Government Area of the state. Residents said the attacks occurred in quick succession, with the assailants first invading Elulu before launching another deadly attack on Agadagba. The recurring violence has renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect communities, religious institutions and vulnerable residents across Benue State, as stakeholders continue to urge the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to curb the activities of armed criminal groups across the country.

Posted: 2weeks ago

Author: Editor in Chief

Current date: 14 August 2026