Late Wednesday night, the Acting Rector, Mr. H. E. Adejo, and several other senior officials were forcefully taken from their quarters by heavily armed assailants. The attack, which has left the entire polytechnic community in fear, saw the perpetrators storm the staff quarters, overpowering security personnel and causing widespread panic.
Eyewitnesses report that the gunmen, numbering around twenty, invaded the quarters at approximately 10 p.m. They were reportedly dressed in military camouflage, adding to the confusion and fear among residents. The assailants moved swiftly, targeting the residence of the Acting Rector and subsequently, those of other top officials.
One staff member, who narrowly escaped the ordeal, described the scene as "chaotic and terrifying." "We were helpless," he recounted, "They were heavily armed and showed no hesitation."
The abductors, whose identities and motives remain unclear, have yet to make contact or demand a ransom. This incident has left the polytechnic in a state of shock and uncertainty, with staff and students alike deeply concerned for the safety of their colleagues and leaders.
In response to the crisis, the Benue State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation and intensified efforts to rescue the abducted individuals. The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Julius Alawari, assured the public that all necessary resources are being deployed to secure the safe return of the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The state government has also condemned the abduction, calling it a "heinous act" and urging the security agencies to expedite their efforts in resolving the situation. The Governor of Benue State, Mr. Samuel Ortom, expressed his solidarity with the polytechnic community, promising that the government will do everything within its power to ensure the safe release of the kidnapped officials.
This incident adds to the growing concerns about security in the region, as communities continue to grapple with the threat of armed groups and kidnappings. The Benue State Polytechnic has suspended all academic activities as a precautionary measure, and an emergency meeting has been convened to discuss the next steps and provide support to those affected.
As the search and rescue operation continues, the polytechnic community, along with the families of the abducted staff, remain hopeful and prayerful for their safe return. The ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for enhanced security measures to protect educational institutions and their members from such traumatic events.
