Freedom at Last! Four Kidnap Victims Escape Captors in Benue

 

In an incredible display of resilience, four kidnap victims have escaped from their captors in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. Their return, after weeks in captivity, has brought both relief and renewed concerns about the security challenges facing the region.

The Executive Chairman of Ukum LGA, Hon. Jonathan Modi Ta, welcomed the survivors in Zaki Biam on Thursday, February 13, 2025, ensuring they received immediate care and attention.

The victims, all natives of Ukum, recounted the horrifying details of their abduction on December 27, 2024. They were held in dire conditions, often going for days without food and enduring constant fear and uncertainty. "We lost track of time," one of them revealed, their voice trembling with emotion. "Every day felt like an eternity."

Despite the physical and emotional toll, they never lost hope. Seizing a rare opportunity, they managed to break free from their captors and navigate their way to safety—an escape that can only be described as miraculous.

Following a strategic security meeting with top officials, Hon. Modi reassured the victims of the government’s commitment to their safety. He immediately ordered their transfer to a hospital for urgent medical treatment, emphasizing the importance of professional care due to their frail conditions.

"As a government, we will not stand by while criminals terrorize our people," Hon. Modi stated. "These perpetrators must understand that justice—both legal and divine—will catch up with them."

While the escape of these victims is a sign of hope, the incident has left the Ukum community shaken. Many residents fear for their safety, as cases of kidnapping and violence have continued to rise. The local government has vowed to intensify security efforts, working closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent further attacks.

As the rescued victims recover, their story serves as a painful reminder of the insecurity gripping parts of the country. It also highlights the strength of the human spirit—a testament to survival against all odds.