A student from Benue State has recounted a terrifying escape after being kidnapped along the Osokoko–Obajana Road in Kogi State, shedding light on the increasing insecurity in the region and raising suspicions of local complicity with armed bandits.
Ojaja Joseph, a Benue State student en route to Abuja for his Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) programme, was among passengers abducted from a commercial bus on Thursday.
In a video circulated by Egbe Mekun Parrot, Joseph detailed the harrowing journey through the forested terrain and multiple rivers.
“We were inside the bus when they attacked. They marched us into the bush and forced us to cross at least seven rivers. At one point, we reached a very deep river with thick trees, and I feared we would not make it out alive,” Joseph said, visibly shaken.
He described the kidnappers as heavily armed and highly organised. “Some of them had guns they could not even hold properly; they mounted them on bikes to operate.
Those who failed to comply were brutally punished. I only survived because I hid in a bush as darkness fell,” he added.
The student revealed that upon emerging from hiding, he encountered three men who he initially believed were locals offering help.
“They questioned me about the attack and, to my horror, I realized they were colluding with the kidnappers, speaking in Kabba language about why the bandits had allowed me to escape. My understanding of Yoruba helped me pick up on their conversation,” Joseph said.
He credited quick thinking for saving his life. “I told them I needed to move toward a toilet and used the moment to run away,” he explained.
Joseph also noted that the kidnappers appeared to operate in divisions, with some marching captives into the bush while others guarded with firearms.
The incident has intensified fears among travellers along the Osokoko–Obajana axis. Eyewitnesses said two commercial buses were targeted, with one successfully attacked while the other escaped. Residents have since warned motorists to avoid the route until security forces secure the area.
The attack comes amid a rising tide of kidnappings in Kogi State, where armed groups have increasingly abducted travellers, killed some victims, and demanded exorbitant ransoms.
Despite repeated government assurances, many locals complain that security interventions remain largely ineffective.
Adding to the tension, a fresh attack was reported on Saturday along the Isanlu Makutu–Idofin corridor in Yagba East Local Government Area, leaving residents fearful and prompting travellers to divert to alternative routes.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
