Bandits Demand N50 Million Ransom for Abducted Family Members of Ex-Daily Trust Editor in Kogi



Bandits are demanding a ransom of N50 million for the release of three family members of Ahmed Ajobe, a former Editor with Daily Trust, who were abducted on Thursday evening in Kogi State.

Among the kidnapped victims is Halimatu-Sadiya Tahir, Mr. Ajobe’s younger sister. The family members were on their way back from a community market in Awo, Ankpa Local Government Area, where they had purchased items for the seven-day prayer for Mr. Ajobe’s late mother, Aishetu Tahir. Mrs. Tahir passed away on Sunday after a protracted illness.

The abduction occurred along the poorly maintained Ankpa-Adoka-Makurdi road, a known hotspot for such criminal activities. According to a family friend, who spoke to PUNCH on the condition of anonymity, the assailants contacted the family on Friday afternoon with their demand.

“Yes, three of Ajobe’s family members were kidnapped at gunpoint around 3 p.m. on Thursday,” the source confirmed. “The kidnappers reached out yesterday and demanded N50 million as ransom. I can’t confirm if the family is currently negotiating, but no payment has been made so far, and the victims remain in captivity.”

Efforts to reach Mr. Ajobe for comments were unsuccessful as he was deeply engrossed in preparations for the prayer ceremony.

The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the incident, with the Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya, stating that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ankpa has mobilized his team to assist in the rescue mission.

The state Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, has also ordered the deployment of additional tactical units to intensify efforts in securing the safe release of the victims and apprehending the perpetrators.

The kidnapping underscores the worsening security challenges in Kogi State and the urgent need for improved road infrastructure and security measures in the region.

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