Insecurity
Gunmen Kidnap Benue State’s Information Commissioner
They then forcibly took Abo to an undisclosed location on one of the motorcycles
ZAKI-BIAM, Benue State – The Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism in Benue State, Matthew Abo, has been abducted from his residence in the quiet community of Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area.
It was gathered that the incident occurred on the night of Sunday, September 25, 2023.
According to initial reports, Abo fell victim to armed gunmen who arrived at his residence on four motorcycles.
Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene where the assailants ordered everyone, including the commissioner’s wife and children, to lie face down. They then forcibly took Abo to an undisclosed location on one of the motorcycles, with a gunman riding behind him.
Confirming the abduction, Chief Press Secretary to the state Governor, Hyacinth Alia, Kula Tersoo, expressed deep concern over the incident.
He said security agencies in the state have been alerted, and efforts are underway to locate and secure the safe release of Commissioner Matthew Abo.
“Unfortunately, he (commissioner) was kidnapped in his country home in Ukum LGA, around 8pm on, Sunday, September 24, 2023. He was in his home with his family, children and his people when the armed men came in. They forced him to a bike.
“We received the unfortunate development and His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Alia has already directed and detailed the security operatives to ensure his safe release from the kidnappers den,” he added.