Gunmen have kidnapped several candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Benue State. The incident has raised fresh concerns about insecurity in Nigeria. It also comes as thousands of students sit for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The attack happened on Wednesday evening along the Makurdi–Otukpo road. The victims were travelling to Otukpo Local Government Area to write their exams.

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How The Attack Happened

According to eyewitnesses, the attackers stopped a commercial bus operated by Benue Links. The bus was carrying about 18 passengers at the time.

Soon after, the gunmen forced the vehicle to a halt. They then ordered all passengers to come down at gunpoint. After that, they marched them into a nearby forest.

Most of the victims were young students heading to write JAMB.

“The passengers were all marched into the forest. Most of them were students going to Otukpo to write JAMB,” a source said.

Number Of Victims Confirmed

Authorities confirmed that at least 14 passengers were kidnapped. However, some reports suggest the number could be higher.

Meanwhile, one of the victims managed to escape during the attack. The driver and a few others also escaped.

Police React And Launch Rescue Operation

The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed the incident. He also said security operatives have started a rescue operation.

“Fourteen passengers were kidnapped, but one escaped. I am currently in Otukpo coordinating operations,” he said.

In addition, the Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed that most victims were students.

“The victims are mainly young boys and girls coming to Otukpo to write JAMB,” he stated.

Growing Fear Among Parents And Residents

As expected, the incident has caused panic among parents and residents. Many families are now worried about the safety of their children.

Furthermore, the Makurdi–Otukpo road has become dangerous in recent months. Cases of kidnapping and armed attacks have increased along the route.

Rising Insecurity In Nigeria

This attack highlights the growing insecurity in Nigeria. In recent years, gunmen have targeted schools, highways, and communities.

As a result, students have become easy targets. Many kidnappers demand ransom before releasing victims.

Therefore, citizens continue to call on the government to improve security across the country.

Rescue Efforts Ongoing

Security agencies are still searching the forest for the kidnapped students. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

However, authorities have assured the public that they will rescue the victims safely.

For now, families of the victims are waiting anxiously for good news.