Tension in Benue: Gunmen Abduct Four Female University Students, Sparks Fear and Protest
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the kidnapping of four female students from Joseph Saawuaan Tarka Federal University, Makurdi, formerly known as the Federal University of Agriculture.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Sewuese Anene, stated in a telephone interview that investigations and rescue operations are underway.
Eyewitness reports indicate that the students were abducted at approximately 8:30 PM within the university premises, igniting panic among the student community. The area, which shares boundaries with communities previously attacked by suspected herdsmen, has long been a source of security concerns.
According to sources, the victims have been identified as Emmanuella Oraka, who was reportedly dressed in a wrapper, Fola in a yellow top, Susan in a floral top, and Ella in a black top. They were said to be heading to a reading point near their hostels when they were intercepted by the armed assailants.
The distressing news triggered immediate protests across the campus, with students marching with tree branches, demanding urgent action from school authorities.
Despite the growing unrest, Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Itodo has yet to make an official statement, leaving many concerned about the response strategy. In the meantime, military personnel from Operation Whirl Stroke have been deployed, and the Makurdi Local Government Chairman, alongside state security forces, is working to manage the crisis and ensure the safe return of the abducted students.
The situation remains tense as fear and uncertainty grip the university community.