Mirian Gom 
MAKURDI, Nigeria — Three siblings travelling with the remains of their late mother from Abuja to Benue State for burial have been abducted by suspected armed herdsmen along the Ogobia–Otukpo Road in Ohimini Local Government Area, according to local authorities and family sources.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped in the early hours of Saturday between the Omutele and Ankpechi communities while transporting their mother’s body to Iklenyi in Okpokwu Local Government Area for burial.
A source familiar with the incident said the family experienced delays after their vehicle developed a mechanical fault during the journey.
“Even at about 2am they were still on the road because their vehicle had broken down. After repairing it, they continued the journey because they were determined to take their mother’s body home for burial,” the source said.
According to the source, the siblings remained in contact with relatives until they reached the stretch of road where they were allegedly ambushed.
“It was the three of them travelling with the corpse of their mother. When they got to that area, the armed men abducted all three siblings and even took the corpse of their mother into the bush. As we speak, they are still being held,” the source added.
“It is painful that a family already grieving the loss of their mother has been subjected to this ordeal. They kidnapped not only the children but also took the corpse of a dead woman. We appeal to the security agencies to act swiftly and ensure their safe rescue,” the source said.
Confirming the incident, Chairman of Ohimini Local Government Area, Gabriel Adole, said he had received reports of the abduction and was heading to the affected community to assess the situation.
About the Author
