In Benue State, Nigeria, a series of violent attacks have led to the abduction of 14 passengers and the deaths of seven individuals. The abductions occurred on Monday along the Okpokwu axis as the victims were traveling from the Igede region of Oju and Obi local government areas towards the South West. Gunmen intercepted their vehicle and took them into the bush, highlighting the increasing insecurity in the region. This incident comes only two days after a separate attack where nine worshippers were kidnapped during a church vigil in Utonkon, Ado Local Government Area, further indicating a troubling rise in violence related to banditry and conflicts involving herdsmen.