Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Relief swept across Benue State on Sunday as eight kidnapped candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) regained freedom after spending three harrowing days in captivity following last Wednesday’s Benue Links bus abduction.
Eight of the rescued victims from last Wednesday’s abduction involving a Benue Links bus have been confirmed as candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
The victims were part of passengers travelling in an 18-seater commercial bus on April 15, 2026, en route to Otukpo to sit for their examinations when they were abducted by gunmen.
They were freed in the early hours of Sunday after enduring three days in captivity, raising relief among families and authorities.
The rescued candidates, including three female students, were subsequently brought to the Benue State Government House in Makurdi by the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ifeanyi Emenari. They were accompanied by their parents and guardians for an official reception by Governor Hyacinth Alia.
Although visibly exhausted from the traumatic experience, the victims are currently undergoing documentation ahead of their formal presentation to the governor.
