Tragedy Befalls Benue Community as Cleric Dies After Abduction Ordeal

In a devastating turn of events, Reverend Samuel Gbinde, the Senior Pastor of the Universal Reformed Christian Church (NKST) in the Saghev Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, has passed away. This unfortunate incident occurred shortly after his release from captivity, where he was held alongside two members of his congregation. The cleric's abduction, which took place about two weeks prior, ended with the payment of a ransom, but the ordeal took a severe toll on his health. According to a church member who wished to remain anonymous, Reverend Gbinde suffered immense torture at the hands of his captors while they awaited the ransom payment. Following his release, the pastor was rushed to a mission hospital in Gboko due to his critical condition, having been badly beaten and tortured during his time in captivity. Despite the efforts of medical personnel in both Gboko and Makurdi to save his life, Reverend Gbinde succumbed to his injuries. The news of his death has sent shockwaves of grief throughout the church and the Guma communities. Dr. Eunice Ortom, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Benue North-West Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, expressed her deep sadness over the loss, describing it as a significant blow to the church and the state. In her condolence message, Dr. Ortom remembered Reverend Gbinde as a devoted servant of God, characterized by his selfless service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the spiritual and moral wellbeing of his community. She extended her condolences to the bereaved family, the NKST Church, and the entire community, praying for strength to bear the loss.