Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has applauded the coordinated efforts of security agencies that led to the rescue of 11 kidnap victims who had been held captive by bandits in various locations across the country.
The victims—originally abducted at different times and locations—hail from Benue, Taraba, Cross River, and Ebonyi States. Their rescue was achieved through a joint operation spearheaded by the Joint Task Force in the troubled Sankera axis, which comprises Ukum, Logo, and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas of Benue State.
Addressing journalists after an emergency security meeting at the Old Banquet Hall of the Government House in Makurdi, Governor Alia described the rescue as a significant victory in the ongoing war against insecurity in the state.
“I want to thank all the security agencies in the state for their tireless efforts to protect the lives of our people,” the governor said. “Out of the 11 victims, three are from Benue, three from Taraba, two from Cross River, and two from Ebonyi.”
Governor Alia disclosed that some of the victims had been held for as long as two months under harrowing conditions. He commended their courage and resilience and assured them of immediate medical attention, psychological care, and support to reunite with their loved ones.
“We thank God that after spending time in the hands of terrible human beings, some operations were carried out in the Sankera axis, and they have been rescued. Our hearts are with the victims and their families,” he added.
The governor also extended his appreciation to the Federal Government for the deployment of additional personnel and equipment that aided the success of the operation. He reiterated his administration’s resolve to fully support all security agencies in ridding the state of criminal elements.
Earlier, the Director-General of the Bureau for Homeland Security, Rtd Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuan, presented the rescued victims to the governor. He attributed the successful operation to Governor Alia’s swift intervention and the synergy among the security outfits involved.
Governor Alia concluded by thanking Operation Whirl Stroke, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other members of the Joint Task Force for their commitment to restoring peace and stability in Benue State.
