Gunmen have kidnapped three relatives of Malam Ahmed Ajobe, a former editor of Daily Trust, on the Ankpa-Adoka-Makurdi Road in Kogi State.
The victims, including Ajobe’s younger sister, Halimtu-Sadiya Tahir, were abducted at gunpoint on Thursday while returning from a market in Awo, Ankpa Local Government Area. The family was reportedly purchasing items for the seven-day prayers of their late mother, Malama Aishetu Tahir, who passed away on Sunday after a prolonged illness.
Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya, confirmed the incident on Friday. He stated that the Divisional Police Officer in the area had deployed officers to track the assailants, while Commissioner of Police Bethrand Onuoha ordered a tactical team to reinforce rescue efforts. Aya assured that the police were doing everything possible to secure the victims’ release and apprehend the kidnappers.
A family friend disclosed that the kidnappers had contacted the family on Friday, demanding a N50 million ransom. Negotiations are reportedly ongoing, but no payment has been made, and the victims remain in captivity.
This incident highlights the growing insecurity in the region, particularly on poorly maintained roadways often targeted by criminal elements.
