Kidnapped Benue cleric dies after regaining freedom, Mrs. Ortom mourns

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Senior Pastor of the Universal Reformed Christian Church (NKST), Andyar Ishan Classis, Saghev Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area, LGA, of Benue State, Rev. Samuel Gbinde, has died days after regaining freedom from suspected armed herdsmen who abducted him.

Rev. Gbinde was reportedly kidnapped about two weeks ago alongside two members of his congregation.

Although the victims were later released after a ransom was allegedly paid, the cleric reportedly succumbed to injuries sustained during his captivity shortly after his release.

A church member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the pastor endured severe torture at the hands of his abductors while they waited for the ransom payment.

According to the source, “after his release, Reverend Gbinde was rushed to the mission hospital in Gboko because he was in a very critical condition. He had been badly beaten and tortured during his captivity. Sadly, despite the efforts of medical personnel in Gboko and later Makurdi, to save his life, he passed away few days ago.”

The death of the cleric has sparked grief across the church and the Guma communities, with many describing him as a dedicated minister whose commitment to the service of God and humanity remained unwavering until his death.

Reacting to the development, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Benue North-West Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, Dr. Eunice Ortom, expressed sadness over the death of the pastor, describing it as a huge loss to the church and the state.

In a condolence message, Dr. Ortom said, “Rev. Dr. Samuel Gbinde was a devoted servant of God whose life was defined by selfless service, compassion and unwavering commitment to the spiritual and moral wellbeing of his community. His death is a painful loss not only to the NKST family but also to Guma LGA and Benue State as a whole.”

She extended her condolences to the bereaved family, NKST Church Andyar, Ishan Classis, and the entire NKST Church worldwide, praying that God would grant them the strength to bear the irreparable loss.

Dr. Ortom also condemned the circumstances surrounding the cleric’s death, describing it as another tragic reminder of the worsening insecurity in Benue State. She urged the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to end the wave of kidnappings, killings and violent attacks across the state.

“The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government. Rev. Gbinde’s death should strengthen our collective resolve to restore lasting peace and security in Benue State,” she said.

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