By Yemi Itodo
Foremost Benue born social activist, Barr. Franc Utoo, has been abducted by unknown gunmen.
Barr. Utoo was abducted on Saturday, in the presence of his 2 kids, around Chambian Plaza in Gwarimpa-Abuja.
The unknown gunmen, who were described to be in mufti, apparently trailed Utoo from his house when he went out with the kids and house help to pick some groceries from the supermarket.
The abductors, however, were reported to have told the house help that, they had orders from Goverment House, Makurdi and Benue State Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Abba Yaro, to pick Barr. Utoo.
When contacted, a Police source in Makurdi, Benue State capital, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed the arrest of Barr. Utoo.
The source disclosed that the APC stalwart was being held by the Police Authority at the state command, on the orders of an APC chieftain in Benue who complained that Barr. Utoo insulted him on facebook.
It could be recalled that, Barr. Franc Utoo contested for House of Representatives under the APC in 2015, but was allegedly substituted.
He has, consequently formed an opposing voice to what he described as “impunity”, in running the affairs of the party by the State Chairman, Yaro.
Utoo has also been a resounding voice against the government of Gov. Samuel Ortom as he has stood for the masses in demanding for good governance and accountability.
In the wake of wanton destruction of lives and properties by the Fulani Mercenaries, Utoo was one of the formidable persons, who stood against open grazing and also led series of protests to the National Assembly.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has condemned the abduction of Barr. Franc Utoo.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, through his social media handle, said, “the Samuel Ortom administration recognizes the fact that Franc is one of the courageous voices of reason who have spoken out against the invasion of Benue communities and killing of innocent people by herdsmen.
“Franc Utoo is one of those who have remained resolute in condemnation of the senseless killings and have supported the passage of the anti-grazing law.
“He is one of those who have risen in support of the present administration in its push for the ranching revolution of this country. This administration is not only proud of men like Utoo but also appreciates their selfless contributions for a safer Benue”.
The Governor described Utoo as a brave man and, saying his abduction was uncalled for.
“I join you and numerous friends of Franc Utoo to call for his immediate release. We can’t afford to have one of our bravest men held hostage at a time we need him most”, Ortom said.
