TheCable

Mathew Aboh, Benue commissioner for information, culture and tourism, has been abducted by gunmen.

Tersoo Kula, chief press secretary (CPS) to the governor, confirmed the news on Monday.

Kula said Hyacinth Alia, the governor, has already directed security operatives to ensure the commissioner’s safe release.

“Yes, we received the unfortunate news, and the governor has already detailed security operatives to do everything possible to ensure his safe release,” Kula said.

The governor also described the act as “barbaric and unacceptable”.

He urged the people of the state to remain calm as his administration will do everything to make Benue safe for all.

The gunmen allegedly invaded the commissioner’s residence in Zaki-Biam, Ukum LGA of the state at about 8pm on Sunday.

The kidnappers reportedly ordered everyone in the house, including Aboh’s wife and children, to lie face down before taking the commissioner away.

Aboh was sworn in as a member of the Benue executive council on August 29.

On Friday, bandits attacked the Federal University of Gusau (FUG) in Zamfara state and abducted an unspecified number of students.

In August, bandits abducted eight graduates travelling from Akwa Ibom to Sokoto for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp on the outskirts of Zamfara.