Gunmen abducted three relatives of former Daily Trust Editor, Malam Ahmed Ajobe, on Thursday evening in Kogi State.
The victims, including Ajobe’s immediate younger sister, Halimtu-Sadiya Tahir, a male family member, and another female relative, were taken while returning from a nearby market in Awo, Ankpa Local Government Area, along the poorly maintained Ankpa-Adoka-Markudi road.
Ajobe, who recently lost his mother, Malama Aishetu Tahir, on Sunday after a prolonged illness, was preparing for the seven-day prayer ceremony for her when the abduction occurred. The victims had been out buying items for the prayers when they were kidnapped.
A family friend revealed that the abductors have demanded a ransom of N50 million for the victims’ release. “Yes, three of Ajobe’s family members were kidnapped around 3 p.m. on Thursday. The kidnappers made contact on Friday afternoon and asked for N50 million,” the friend said, adding that they were unsure of the family’s response to the demand as he had to leave the community for an emergency in Lokoja.
“As of now, no payment has been made, and the victims are still in captivity,” the source confirmed.
The Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), William Aya, confirmed the incident, stating that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in the area has deployed officers to aid in the rescue operation. He further mentioned that Police Commissioner Bethrand Onuoha had ordered the deployment of a tactical team to assist in ensuring the safe release of the victims and the arrest of the perpetrators.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure the safe release of the abducted persons and to bring the criminals to justice,” Aya assured.
