A commercial driver identified as Igba Agenewe has been killed by suspected armed men along the Anyiin-Ayilamo road in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.

Agenewe, a member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Wurukum branch, Anyiin section, was reportedly returning to Makurdi from Anyiin on Monday when the attackers emerged from the surrounding bush and opened fire on his vehicle.

Three passengers believed to be soldiers were also reportedly abducted during the attack, although they were later said to have regained their freedom and returned to Anyiin.

A union member, Iorember Tser, said Agenewe had earlier been warned against using the Ayilamo route due to the security situation in the area.

Tser said Agenewe had driven his Sharon bus to Anyiin with passengers before beginning his return journey. He reportedly picked up the three soldiers before heading towards Makurdi.

According to Tser, the attack occurred after the vehicle passed Akwana, a community along the route to Ayilamo.

“When he passed a town called Akwana, heading towards Ayilamo, unknown gunmen emerged from the bush and shot him. He died on the spot,” Tser said.

The incident has heightened concerns among motorists and commuters using the Abinsi-Tyulen-Anyiin-Wukari road, particularly the Ayilamo section, which has experienced security challenges linked to the prolonged conflict in the area.

The owner of the vehicle, Mr Aondona Tyulen, described the killing as unfortunate and appealed to security agencies to identify and arrest those responsible.

He also urged authorities to strengthen security along the route to protect motorists and commuters and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

As of the time of filing the report, Agenewe’s remains had been deposited at the Ayilamo mortuary.

Attempts to obtain an official reaction from the Benue State Police Command were unsuccessful, as the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, had not responded to enquiries.