Benue State Polytechnic Acting Rector and Others Staff Kidnapped; See Millions of Ransom Demanded
Benue State, Nigeria –Dr. Emmanuel Barki, the acting Rector of Benue State Polytechnic in Ugbokolo, along with two other staff members, was kidnapped by armed assailants. The abduction occurred as they were returning from an official trip to Makurdi, the state capital, on Thursday.
The group was reportedly taken by the kidnappers along the Otukpo/Otukpa Road. Among the kidnapped were Dr. Barki, two other management staff, and their driver. One of the victims was subsequently released due to health concerns.
A source close to the rector’s family, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that the kidnappers have contacted the family, demanding a ransom of ₦70 million for their release.
On Friday, Augustine Leva, the immediate past Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benue State, visited the rector’s family. He offered prayers for the safe and swift return of the kidnapped individuals and urged the state government to bolster security measures to protect residents.
Catherine Anene, the spokesperson for the state police command, confirmed the abduction and stated that investigations are underway. “Incident confirmed and investigation is ongoing,” she said in a brief statement.
The state’s Security Adviser, Joseph Har, also acknowledged the incident but mentioned he was unaware of any ransom demand. “The incident happened, but I’m not aware they demanded ransom. Security personnel are combing the area to locate and rescue them,” Har stated.
This incident follows the recent kidnapping of two female students from the Joseph Sarwuan University of Agriculture, Makurdi, by armed men in late May 2024, highlighting the persistent security challenges in the region.
