Gunmen abduct polytechnic rector, 2 other staff members

Gunmen have abducted the acting Rector of Benue State Polytechnic in Ugbokolo, Dr. Emmanuel Barki, and two other staff members of the institution.

The incident occurred on Thursday as Barki, two other senior staff, and their driver were returning from an official trip to Makurdi, the state capital.

The abduction took place on the Otukpo/Otukpa Road. One of the victims was later released due to health complications.

A family source, who requested anonymity, revealed that the kidnappers have contacted the family, demanding a ransom of N70 million.

In response to the crisis, Augustine Leva, the immediate past Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benue State, visited the rector’s family on Friday.

He offered prayers for the safe release of the victims and urged the state government to bolster security measures for the safety of its residents.

Benue State Police Command’s spokesperson, Catherine Anene, confirmed the abductions and stated that investigations are underway. She said, “Incident confirmed and investigation is ongoing.”

Additionally, Joseph Har, the Security Adviser to the state governor, acknowledged the kidnapping but noted that he was not aware of any ransom demands.