Police in Benue State have arrested Dr. Ichor Tersagh, a lecturer at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University of Agriculture, Makurdi (JOSTUM), for allegedly orchestrating the abduction of Mrs. Susan Anyagh, the wife of his colleague and chairman of the university’s Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Paul Anyagh.
The chilling incident occurred last Saturday when Mrs. Anyagh was ambushed along Otukpo Road, Makurdi.
Details of the Abduction
According to reports, Mrs. Anyagh was flagged down by individuals claiming to need help while driving from an NNPC mega fuel station in Kanshio, where she had gone to collect money from a customer. Trusting their plea, she stopped to assist, only for the men to forcefully enter her car, pointing a gun at her, and ordering her to drive towards the Wurukum area.
During the ordeal, the kidnappers beat her severely, collected ₦1.35 million found in her car, and abandoned her on a bush path after hitting her with a car jack on the back of her neck.
Involvement of the Lecturer
Mrs. Anyagh, after regaining consciousness at the Primary Healthcare Clinic in Ameladu, recounted a shocking twist. She stated that during the abduction, she saw her husband’s colleague, Dr. Tersagh, standing nearby and called out for his help, but he allegedly turned away and walked off.
The victim further revealed that her abductors received a call during the ordeal. The caller, whom she claimed was Dr. Tersagh, reportedly instructed the kidnappers to kill her. This call caused her to panic, but the kidnappers later abandoned her when they approached a police checkpoint.
Police Statement
Benue State Police Command spokesperson Catherine Anene confirmed the incident and Dr. Tersagh’s arrest in connection with the crime. She provided additional details of the incident in a statement:
- The victim was stopped by individuals posing as persons in need.
- She was forced to drive to a secluded area where her abductors stole the money she was carrying.
- She identified Dr. Tersagh as being present at the scene of the abduction but stated that he ignored her plea for help.
- Dr. Tersagh allegedly called the abductors, instructing them to kill her.
Anene assured the public that the case is under thorough investigation, with further updates to be provided as the inquiry progresses.
Victim’s Condition and Husband’s Reaction
Mrs. Anyagh is currently recovering from her injuries sustained during the attack. Her husband, Paul Anyagh, confirmed the incident and stated that he was assisting the police with their investigation. He promised to provide more information as the case unfolds.
Community Reaction and Call for Justice
The incident has sent shockwaves through the academic and local communities, raising concerns about trust and safety within professional circles. Colleagues and residents have called for a thorough investigation and justice for the victim.
Ongoing Investigation
The arrest of Dr. Tersagh represents a significant step in unraveling the details of the crime. Police are working to establish the full extent of his involvement and identify any accomplices. This case highlights the importance of community vigilance and the need for continued efforts to combat criminal activities in the region.
