Gunmen have again attacked a commercial bus operated by Benue Links, the Benue State Government–owned transport company, leaving three passengers with gunshot injuries

Otukpo, Benue State, Nigeria • 10 January 2026

in an ambush that has reignited fears over road travel safety in the state.
The incident occurred at about 7:00 pm on Saturday, 10 January 2026, along the Burnt Bricks area on the Gboko–Otukpo route in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State. According to company officials, the bus — bearing registration number PP974 — was travelling from Gboko to Otukpo, where it was due to lodge overnight before continuing its trip to Lagos, when it was intercepted by suspected gunmen.
Eyewitnesses say the assailants opened fire on the vehicle, causing panic among passengers. At least three occupants were hit by gunfire, while others managed to flee to safety.

The Information Officer of Benue Links Nigeria Limited, Johnson Ehi Daniel, confirmed the attack and said the injured were rushed to the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Otukpo, where they are currently being treated and responding well. He added that no fatalities have been reported so far.
In response, General Manager Alexander Aondohemba Fanafa and the company’s Business Manager, Edache Joseph, visited the wounded passengers at the hospital and pledged that Benue Links will cover all medical expenses and provide support until they can safely continue their journeys.

Following the incident, the General Manager also met with police at the Otukpo Police Station, commending their prompt response and urging sustained efforts to curb criminal activities on the state’s highways.
This attack comes amid ongoing insecurity in Benue State, where commercial vehicles have previously been targeted in kidnappings and ambushes, contributing to heightened public concern over travel safety in the region.
Authorities have yet to announce any arrests in connection with the latest attack, and investigations are ongoing.