Makurdi, Benue — The abductors of nine worshippers from St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State have reduced their ransom demand from ₦100 million to ₦30 million, fresh reports confirm.
The victims, mostly women and young people, were seized during a night vigil around 2:00 a.m. on Sunday. Family members said the abductors initially demanded ₦100 million, but after negotiations on Wednesday night, the amount was lowered to ₦30 million, which the families are now working to raise.
A relative, speaking on condition of anonymity, called for public support, appealing to friends, civil society groups, corporate bodies, and other well-meaning individuals to assist in securing the victims’ release.
Security forces have been deployed to the area, but no rescue has been reported yet, prompting families to call for increased government and security intervention to locate the abductors and safely recover the worshippers.
The Chairman of Ado Local Government, Sunday Oche, declined to comment on the ransom negotiation but assured that security agencies are intensifying efforts to free the victims.
This latest development highlights the ongoing security challenges in rural Benue State, where armed abductions and ransom demands continue to pose a serious threat to communities. Don’t Miss:Worsening Lassa Fever in Taraba: 15 Dead, 49 Infected as Hospitals Struggle
