GUNMEN ABDUCT JOURNALIST'S RELATIVES IN KOGI, DEMAND N50m RANSOM

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Gunmen have abducted three relatives of Malam Ahmed Tahir Ajobe, a former editor at Daily Trust, demanding a ransom of N50 million for their release.

The victims, including a male and two females—one of whom is Ajobe’s immediate younger sister, Halimtu-Sadiya Tahir—were kidnapped on Thursday evening along the dilapidated Ankpa-Adoka-Makurdi road in Awo, Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Sources revealed the victims were returning from a local market where they had gone to purchase items for the 7-day prayer ceremony for their late mother, Malama Aishetu Tahir, who passed away on Sunday after a prolonged illness.

A family friend disclosed details of the incident, confirming the ransom demand.

“The kidnappers contacted the family on Friday afternoon, requesting N50 million. Negotiations are ongoing, but no ransom has been paid yet, and the victims remain in captivity,” the source said.

When contacted, Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya, confirmed the abduction. He stated that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in the area had deployed officers to track down the perpetrators and rescue the victims.

Additionally, the Police Commissioner, Bethrand Onuoha, has ordered tactical reinforcements to bolster rescue efforts. Aya assured the public that every possible measure would be taken to secure the victims’ release and bring the culprits to justice.

The incident underscores the worsening security challenges faced by residents in parts of Kogi State.