Tragedy struck in Ikobi, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State on Thursday night as gunmen hijacked a fully loaded Benue Links bus, killing the driver and kidnapping all the passengers on board.

The gunmen, however, left a toddler behind.

According to sources, the assailants ambushed the bus along the highway, fatally shooting the driver before forcibly taking the passengers into the bush. However, a young boy was reportedly spared by the kidnappers.

Although authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident, security agencies have been alerted and are reportedly tracking the whereabouts of the victims.

Reacting to the latest attack, the president of the Ochetoha K’Idoma youth wing, Mike Magaji, expressed his frustration over the state government’s inaction regarding the killings in the state.

He criticized the governor for not delivering a meaningful speech during his visit to Otukpo on Thursday.

Magaji said, “It is heartbreaking that our people continue to live in fear while the government remains silent. How many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken?

“The governor’s visit to Otukpo was a disappointment. Our people expected leadership, not vague reassurances. We need a clear plan to end these attacks.

“The government must rise up to its responsibilities. We cannot continue to mourn our people daily while those in power look the other way.”

When contacted, the Benue Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, stated that she had not yet confirmed the incident at the time of the report.