Abducted JAMB Candidates, 10 Others Regain Freedom After Three Days in Captivity

All 13 remaining passengers abducted by armed men along the Makurdi–Otukpo road in Benue State have regained their freedom, bringing relief to families and authorities following days of uncertainty.

The victims, who were travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus last Wednesday, were reportedly released in the early hours of Sunday after spending about three days in captivity. Among them were eight candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), who were on their way to Otukpo to sit for their examinations at the time of the attack.

Although details surrounding their release remain unclear, sources indicated that security operatives had intensified efforts in the area in the days leading up to Sunday’s development.

Following their rescue, the freed passengers were immediately evacuated for urgent medical attention. They are currently receiving treatment at the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital in Otukpo.

The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed the development and assured that a comprehensive briefing would be provided to the media soon.