25th September, 2023
By Emmanuel Antswen
The Benue State Government has confirmed the abduction of Mr. Matthew Aboh, Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism.
Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, confirmed this development through a text message on Monday in Makurdi.
According to Sir Kula, Governor Hyacinth Alia had received the unfortunate news and has already directed security operatives to ensure his safe release.
The abduction allegedly took place around 8 p.m. on Sunday evening.
“Yes, we received the unfortunate news, and the governor has already detailed security operatives to do everything possible to ensure his safe release,” the text message read.
There were confirmed reports that several gunmen stormed the commissioner’s residence in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area, and kidnapped him.
Eyewitnesses say the kidnappers, who came on four motorcycles, ordered everyone in the house, including Mrs Aboh and children, to lie face down before they took the commissioner to an unknown destination.
The witnesses said the abductors compelled the commissioner at gunpoint to sit behind the rider of one of the motorcycles while a gunman sandwitched him.
When contacted, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Sewuese Anene, said the Command was yet to receive the report on the incident.
NAN