Gunmen abducts acting Rector Benue Polytechnic, demand N70m Ransom

From Attah Ede, Makurdi

Acting Rector, Benue State Polytechnic Ugbokolo, Engr. Emmanuel Barki has been abducted by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.

He was kidnapped while returning from Makurdi to Ugbokolo after an official assignment that took place in the State capital, Wednesday.

It was gathered that the Acting Rector was kidnapped alongside some management staff of the polytechnic and his driver.

It was further gathered that the abductors moved them away from the highway and reportedly abandoned the official vehicle of the polytechnic.

A source who disclosed this to newsmen in Makurdi on Friday, on condition of anonymity, said the abductors called the family of the Acting Rector and demanded N70m as ransom after 24 hours that he was kidnapped with his driver and other management staff of the Polytechnic.

Since the incident happened, prominent individuals have been paying visit to the family of the Acting Rector to sympathize with them.

The immediate past Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Benue State chapter, Rev. Augustine Akpen Leva, condemned the dastardly act and prayed for the immediate release of the Acting Rector.

Leva particularly called on Governor Alia to improve on the security situation of the state to enable people and even the travellers to go to places of their choice without being victims of kidnappers.

When contacted, the Benue State command police public relations officer SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident, saying investigation is ongoing.

However, the special adviser to governor Alia on internal security, Chief Joseph Har also confirmed the abduction of the rector.

According to him, the Acting Rector was kidnapped three days ago.

He said he was not aware of any ransom negotiation, but that security personnel have been in the bush since then combing the bushes.