Suspected gunmen have reportedly attacked a commercial bus belonging to GUO Transport along the Benin–Ore Expressway, killing the driver and abducting several passengers in a fresh wave of highway violence in southern Nigeria.
The incident occurred on Sunday along the busy Ore–Benin corridor, a major interstate route linking the South-West to the South-South and South-East regions of the country.
According to reports, the bus was travelling from Lagos towards the eastern part of Nigeria when it was ambushed by armed attackers who opened fire on the vehicle.
The driver was shot dead on the spot, forcing the vehicle to a halt and leaving passengers at the mercy of the assailants.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the gunmen then forced passengers out of the bus and marched them into nearby forest areas, a tactic commonly associated with kidnapping gangs operating along the route.
The exact number of abducted passengers remains unclear as of the time of reporting, with authorities yet to release an official figure.
Police authorities in Edo State have reportedly confirmed the attack and launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, while security operatives have begun combing surrounding forests in a bid to rescue the victims.
The Benin–Ore Expressway has increasingly become notorious for kidnappings, armed robberies, and violent ambushes, with commuters frequently raising concerns over safety along the corridor.
Security experts attribute the recurring attacks to inadequate patrol coverage, difficult terrain, and the strategic importance of the highway, which makes it a prime target for criminal gangs.
Videos circulating on social media reportedly show the aftermath of the attack, including the abandoned vehicle and belongings of passengers scattered along the road, further fueling public anxiety.
The latest incident has triggered renewed outrage among Nigerians, with many calling on the federal government and security agencies to intensify patrols, deploy surveillance technology, and implement stronger response systems to secure major highways.
The attack adds to a growing list of similar incidents across the country, highlighting the persistent insecurity affecting road travel and raising concerns about the safety of commuters nationwide.
As of now, rescue efforts are ongoing, and authorities are under increasing pressure to ensure the safe return of the abducted passengers while bringing the perpetrators to justice.
