Benue Links Nigeria Limited has confirmed the arrest of one of its drivers following a security incident that led to the abduction of several passengers, many of whom were candidates preparing for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination.
Drivetvnews confirmed In a statement released by the company’s Information Officer, Ehi Daniel, the management disclosed that the driver undertook the journey without authorisation, violating established operational guidelines designed to ensure passenger safety.
The incident occurred on the night of April 15, 2026, in the Ikobi area of Otukpo Local Government Area, Benue State. The 18-seater bus was reportedly attacked by armed assailants while conveying passengers from Makurdi to Otukpo.
According to the company, the driver and a few passengers managed to escape during the attack, while 15 others were taken by the attackers. Two of the abducted passengers later regained their freedom, leaving 13 individuals still unaccounted for.
Management stressed that the trip breached a standing directive prohibiting vehicle movements after 6 p.m. due to ongoing security concerns. The driver reportedly removed the vehicle from the premises without approval, picked up passengers, and embarked on the journey without proper documentation.
As a result, the company stated it lacks complete records of the passengers involved, although it is believed that most were students travelling for their examinations.
The driver is currently in police custody, and investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Benue Links expressed sympathy to the families of the victims and assured the public of its cooperation with security agencies to secure the safe release of those still missing. The company also reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing strict safety protocols to prevent future occurrences.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command confirmed the arrest and stated that tactical teams, including anti-kidnapping units, have been deployed to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
