Islamic cleric kidnapped in Kogi

The Chief Imam of Iyara in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Sheikh Quasim Musa, has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen.

It was gathered that the Islamic cleric was reportedly kidnapped on Monday night outside his house in Ilukpa, the headquarters of Iyara in the Ijumu Local Government Area.

According to sources in the community, the gunmen, who arrived in a commando style, started shooting sporadically before taking their victim to an unknown destination.

A family source, speaking to newsmen on the condition of anonymity, stated that they have yet to receive any information from the kidnappers.

The family source said, “Dear compatriot sons and daughters of Iyara land, it is sad to announce to you all that our community had its share of the current insecurity bedeviling the nation on Monday, 25th March 2024.

“Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen stormed the house of the Chief Imam of Iyara land, Sheikh Quasim Musa, and kidnapped him after shooting sporadically.

“The religious leader was abducted at about 2200hrs after he returned from the mosque and slept outside his house in Ilukpa, the headquarters of Iyara, in the Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

“This dastardly act is cowardice and unfortunate, especially occurring to a religious leader in this holy month of Ramadan. We use this medium to call on relevant authorities to ensure his safe release.

ALSO READ: Lack of contentment breeding corruption — Islamic cleric

“You are hereby requested to commence fervent prayers for the efforts being made to rescue him from the kidnappers’ den, yielding positive results in no distant time. Once again, you are all requested to pray for his safe return.”

Confirming the incident on Tuesday, the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, said, “The Commissioner of Police in Kogi State has deployed a tactical team, PMF, quick response unit, Divisional Police, alongside local vigilantes and other security agencies to ensure that the man is rescued unhurt.”