NINE SUSPECTS SENTENCED OVER BENUE CHURCH KIDNAPPING, ONE AWAITS TRIAL

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By: Fasasi Hammad

A court in Benue State has convicted nine of the 10 suspects connected to the abduction of worshippers at St. John Catholic Church in Ojeji, Ado Local Government Area, in a case that raised serious concerns about security in the area.

The victims were kidnapped during a night vigil, triggering a swift response from joint security operatives. Acting on credible intelligence, authorities carried out coordinated operations that led to the safe rescue of all nine victims without any loss of life.

The Police Intelligence Response Team spearheaded the initial operation, arresting four suspects and recovering AK-47 rifles along with ammunition. Further investigations led to more arrests, bringing the total number of suspects to 10.

Among those arrested were Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim, whose apprehension provided key information that helped dismantle the criminal network.

Following their arraignment, nine of the suspects were convicted and handed varying prison sentences, while one suspect is still awaiting trial.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Sunny Oche, commended security agencies, including the police, DSS, and local vigilantes, for their efforts.

He also praised Governor Hyacinth Alia, the Inspector General of Police, and Deputy Governor Sam Odeh for their roles in ensuring justice is served.

Oche said the outcome demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting lives and restoring public confidence.