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OJU, BENUE STATE — By Prime Brief Media

Nineteen persons abducted during a communal clash between Ukpute community in Oju Local Government Area and Adiko community in Obi Local Government Area of Benue State have been successfully rescued by security operatives, according to local officials. All rescued victims have since been reunited with their families.

The crisis reportedly began on Sunday, April 27, 2026, when a woman from Ukpute community was allegedly attacked and severely injured while working on her farm. The incident triggered swift retaliation by some youths from the affected community, escalating into a broader conflict that led to the abduction of 19 individuals and heightened tension across both local government areas.

In a coordinated response, the Chairmen of Oju and Obi Local Government Areas, Ominyi Jackson Adah and Silas Odeh, mobilised security personnel, including soldiers and police officers, to restore order and secure the release of the abducted victims. The joint security operation culminated in the successful rescue of all 19 captives without further loss of life.

Following the rescue, the two council chairmen visited Ukpute community in Ainu Ette as part of efforts to calm tensions and encourage peaceful dialogue between the warring communities. They appealed to both sides to avoid further reprisals and embrace peaceful coexistence, warning that a cycle of vengeance would only deepen the suffering of ordinary residents.

Calls for Humanitarian Support

Meanwhile, the Omi Ny'Igede Youth Wing Development Association has called for urgent humanitarian support for residents displaced by the violence. The association urged the Benue State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency to provide relief materials, including food supplies, shelter, and medical assistance to affected families.

The youth body expressed concern that many displaced persons, including women and children, are taking refuge in makeshift camps and host communities without adequate access to basic necessities.

Security Presence Maintained

Security personnel have maintained their presence in the affected communities as calm gradually returns. Local officials have expressed cautious optimism that the combined efforts of security forces and community leaders will prevent a resurgence of hostilities.

Inter-communal clashes over land, resources, and perceived grievances remain a recurring challenge across Benue State, particularly in border communities where jurisdictional boundaries and historical tensions intersect. The swift response by local government authorities in Oju and Obi has been commended by residents as a model of proactive crisis management.

Prime Brief Media will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on humanitarian and peacebuilding efforts in the affected communities.

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