Benue Links unauthorized trip kidnapping incident clarified as firm says driver acted without approval before students were abducted in Benue State
The management of Benue Links Nigeria Limited has stated that the bus driver involved in the abduction of 14 UTME candidates travelling in Benue State was not authorised to operate the trip, following a Benue Links unauthorized trip kidnapping incident along the Makurdi to Otukpo route.
Also read: Pastor, son, five others kidnapped in Lagos-bound Benue Links bus
The company confirmed that the 18 seater bus, which was reportedly conveying admission seekers alongside other passengers, was taken out without official approval before the passengers were abducted by unidentified gunmen during the journey.
In a statement issued by the Information Officer, Johnson Ehi Daniel, Benue Links Nigeria Limited described the journey as unauthorised, stressing that the driver acted independently and without clearance from management.
The statement explained that the company maintains a strict policy prohibiting all vehicles from operating beyond 6pm due to ongoing security concerns in parts of the state, a rule it said was violated in this instance.
According to the management, the driver removed the vehicle from company premises without documentation or approval, picked up passengers, and embarked on the ill fated journey contrary to established operational procedures.
Benue Links illegal trip abduction incident clarification comes amid growing public concern over the safety of road travel in the region, particularly for students and other vulnerable passengers.
The company further confirmed that the driver, who reportedly escaped from the abductors, is currently in the custody of the Benue State Police Command as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities are yet to release further details on the whereabouts of the abducted students as security agencies intensify efforts to secure their release.
Also read: Benue Abduction Shocks Nigeria as JAMB Candidates Kidnapped
The incident has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of transport safety regulations and improved security along major routes within Benue State.
