Again, monarch kidnapped in Kogi

A second-class traditional ruler and District Head of Bagaji Odo in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State, HRH David Wada, was kidnapped by unknown gunmen on Monday.

The monarch, who was returning from a traditional council meeting in Abejukolo, headquarters of Omala Local Government Area, was waylaid at Ojuwo Ugweche under gun threat and taken into the bush.

The incident occurred around 5 p.m. on Monday.

According to locals, the monarch, who was being conveyed by a motorcycle rider, ran into an ambush at the notorious Ugweche spot. He was forcibly taken into the bush, while the rider narrowly escaped.

Ojuwo Ugweche, known for repeated cases of kidnapping, is usually manned by vigilante groups and security personnel. However, on the day of the incident, no security operatives were present at the scene.

Although the government had deployed the military and other security agencies to the local government area, insecurity and criminal activities have continued unabated.

When contacted, the paramount ruler of the local government, HRH Boniface Musa, the Onu Ife, confirmed the incident and appealed to security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted monarch.

Also confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Williams Aya, said his men had mobilised hunters, vigilantes, and state security operatives to comb the bush for his release.

Recall that following the fatal killings and burning of Bagana, Bagaji, Agojeju Odo, and Ajokpachi Odo communities by bandits, the government of Alhaji Usman Ahmed Odo deployed detachments of the military and other security agencies to the area.

Unfortunately, the violence has persisted, with herders reportedly taking control of the forests.

At the time of filing this report, the abductors had yet to establish contact with the family.

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