From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Gunmen, yet to be identified, have kidnapped the Acting Rector of Benue State Polytechnic Ugbokolo, in Okpokwu Local Government Area (LGA), of the state, Engr. Emmanuel Barki.
Our correspondent gathered that the acting Rector was on his way to Ugbokolo after an official assignment in Makurdi when he was kidnapped on Tuesday.
It was gathered that he was abducted alongside some management staff of the polytechnic and their driver after which they abandoned the official vehicle along the way.
It was also said that 24 hours later, the abductors called the family of the Acting Rector and demanded for that they pay the sum of N70 million as ransom.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer PPRO), Benue state command, SP Catherine Anene confirmed the kidnapped saying investigation was ongoing.
The Special Adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Security and Internal Affairs Chief Joseph Har PSP confirmed the kidnapped.
Har who noted that the Rector was kidnapped three days ago said he was not privy to any ransom negotiation.
The Security Adviser, who noted that efforts are being made to rescue the victims and apprehend the culprits said “I can confirm the kidnap and my men have been in the bush since then till now, combing the bushes.”