Three siblings travelling from Abuja to Benue State to give their late mother a final farewell have reportedly been abducted by suspected gunmen in a disturbing attack along the Ogobia–Otukpo Road.
The incident, which allegedly occurred in the early hours of Saturday, has sparked fresh concerns over the persistent insecurity on Nigeria’s highways, particularly for travellers heading to rural communities.
Journey to Burial Takes a Tragic Turn
According to citizen journalist Meddy Olotu, the family had departed Abuja with the remains of their mother, intending to bury her in Iklenyi community, Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State.
However, their journey was reportedly disrupted after their vehicle developed mechanical faults, forcing them to remain stranded for several hours before resuming the trip at about 2:00 a.m.
“They left Abuja with the corpse of their mother for burial in Iklenyi, but even by 2:00 a.m., they were still on the road because their vehicle had broken down. Despite that, they continued the journey,” Olotu said in a video shared on social media.
Suspected Gunmen Strike Along Ogobia–Otukpo Road
Olotu alleged that as the family travelled between Ogobia and Otukpo, suspected kidnappers intercepted their vehicle and abducted the three siblings.
He further claimed that the gunmen also took away the remains of the deceased woman, an allegation that has intensified public shock over the incident.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had not officially confirmed the incident or released details regarding the victims’ whereabouts.
Renewed Concerns Over Highway Security
Reacting to the incident, Olotu urged Nigerians to exercise extreme caution when travelling, particularly at night, citing the growing threat posed by criminal gangs operating on major roads.
“If you’re using Nigerian roads at this time, please be very careful. Even travelling during the day is no longer safe, let alone at night. If your journey is not absolutely necessary, stay where you are,” he cautioned.
He also condemned the reported attack, describing it as a troubling reflection of the increasing brutality of kidnappers.
“It is sad that these criminals no longer have sympathy or conscience. Imagine kidnapping people conveying the corpse of their mother and even taking away the body,” he said.
The reported abduction highlights the continuing security challenges facing travellers across parts of Nigeria, where kidnapping for ransom remains a major concern. It also underscores the risks associated with long-distance road travel, especially during nighttime hours.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the reported incident, while concern continues to grow over the fate of the abducted siblings and the recovery of their mother’s remains….See More
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