Nine worshippers were abducted during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area, Benue State, on February 7, 2026, in an attack that has heightened fears among residents.
Reacting to the incident, the Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Chief Hon. Mrs. Lami Danladi Ogenyi, expressed deep concern and called for urgent intervention by security authorities.
In a statement issued by her Chief Press Secretary, Agbaji Samuel Atsonwu, Danladi described the abduction as “a serious affront to peace, faith, and the collective conscience of Ado LGA.” She noted that attacks on places of worship, traditionally regarded as sanctuaries, are particularly disturbing.
The lawmaker said the incident has left families traumatised, disrupted economic activities and created uncertainty in Utonkon and neighbouring communities.
She warned that the attack reflects broader security challenges in Ado LGA and cautioned that failure to respond decisively could escalate the situation.
Danladi called on the Chief Security Officer of Ado LGA to take immediate and coordinated steps to strengthen rescue efforts, reassure residents and prevent further attacks.
She also urged security agencies to enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering and community engagement, especially around vulnerable locations such as churches.
The Deputy Speaker appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and cooperate with security operatives.
According to her, the people of Ado LGA are demanding not just sympathy but concrete action, accountability and sustained protection in the face of recurring insecurity.