Nineteen persons abducted during a violent communal clash in Benue State have been successfully rescued by security operatives, bringing relief to affected families.
The incident occurred following a dispute between the Ukpute community in Oju Local Government Area and the Adiko community in Obi Local Government Area.
The crisis reportedly began after a woman from Ukpute was allegedly attacked and seriously injured while working on her farm.
The attack triggered retaliation from some youths, escalating into violence that led to the abduction of 19 individuals and heightened tension across both communities.
In response, the Chairmen of Oju and Obi LGAs, Ominyi Jackson Adah and Silas Odeh, swiftly mobilized a joint security team comprising soldiers and police officers to restore order.
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Authorities confirmed that the coordinated operation resulted in the safe rescue of all abducted victims, who have since been reunited with their families.
As part of efforts to de-escalate the crisis, the council chairmen also visited the affected areas, urging residents to embrace peace and avoid further reprisals that could worsen the situation.
Meanwhile, the Omi Ny’Igede Youth Wing Development Association has called for urgent humanitarian assistance for displaced residents.
The group appealed to both the Benue State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency to provide food, shelter, and medical support to victims impacted by the violence.
Security presence remains strong in the affected communities as calm gradually returns, while stakeholders continue to advocate dialogue to prevent future conflicts often linked to land and boundary disputes in the state.
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