A man who recently regained his freedom after being kidnapped during a deadly attack in Benue State has alleged that armed herdsmen are operating a notorious criminal camp they call “Sambisa Forest” within the Benue South axis.
The victim, Fabian Akubobi, made the claim while recounting his six-day ordeal in captivity following the May 22 attack along the Ojano Road in Otukpo Local Government Area.
Akubobi, an Imo State-based trader, said he was returning from Benue after purchasing goods when gunmen intercepted the vehicle he was travelling in near Ochobo Bridge.
According to him, the attackers opened fire on the vehicle, forced passengers into the bush, and marched them deep into a forest where they were held captive.
The trader revealed that the kidnappers demanded millions of naira from victims, with some allegedly asked to pay as much as N20 million for their freedom.
He said his family was eventually able to raise N1 million, which secured his release after six days in captivity.
Akubobi further claimed that the kidnappers repeatedly referred to their hideout as “Sambisa Forest,” a name associated with the notorious insurgent stronghold in northeastern Nigeria.
According to him, all the armed men who guarded the camp appeared to be herdsmen and operated freely within the area.
The freed victim also alleged that ransom payments were delivered at a location behind the Idoma Doctors Association building in Otukpo, a spot he claimed has been repeatedly used in previous kidnapping cases.
His account was reportedly supported by citizen journalist Meddy Olotu, who stated that several ransom transactions linked to past abductions in the area were allegedly carried out at the same location.
Olotu expressed concern that despite repeated reports and complaints from residents, criminals continue to use the area for ransom collections without significant disruption.
The allegations have renewed concerns about insecurity in parts of Benue State, where residents continue to face threats from kidnappers and other armed groups.
Authorities are yet to officially respond to the specific claims regarding the alleged criminal hideout and ransom collection point.
Source: Victim’s account and local reports.
