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Tragedy Strikes Nigerian Handball as Benue Buffaloes Kidnapped

Posted : 09 December 2025

Tragedy has struck the handball fraternity in Nigeria as the entire team of Benue Buffaloes was ambushed and kidnapped while returning to Benue after participating in the recently concluded Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 2 in Lagos.

The President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Jibril Saidu Ojih, expressed deep sympathy to the players, coaches, and management of Benue Buffaloes.

The team, which finished 9th in the league, was abducted by armed men while travelling just after Otukpo, Benue State, but was later rescued thanks to the swift intervention of the Nigerian Army.

Jibril condemned the traumatic experience, describing it as “a sad and heartbreaking ordeal that no athlete, coach, or official should ever be subjected to,” while also thanking the Nigerian Army for their quick response.

“I extend my deepest sympathy to the entire Benue Buffaloes team. What they went through is unimaginable and no sports person should face such a situation. We thank God and the Nigerian Army for their safe rescue,” Jibril said.

The HFN President also sympathised with the Benue State Sports Ministry, acknowledging the emotional and psychological toll the incident has taken on the state’s sports community.

“Our hearts go out to the Benue State Sports Ministry. The board of the Handball Federation of Nigeria and the entire Nigerian handball family is with you during this trying moment. You are not alone.”

Jibril commended the Nigerian Army for its prompt intervention, noting that their swift response prevented a potentially worse situation. He also called for improved safety measures for travelling sports teams, emphasizing that athlete welfare must be prioritised nationwide.

He reaffirmed the federation’s support for Benue Buffaloes as they recover from the incident.

“We will stand by the team and ensure they receive all the support they need as they heal and look forward to future competitions,” he assured.

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