An attempted abduction of passengers traveling along the Ejule-Ochadamu road in Kogi State was thwarted on Thursday by the convoy of the state’s Deputy Governor, Joel Salifu.
The incident occurred near Ofejiji in Ochadamu, Ofu Local Government Area, shortly after the Deputy Governor’s convoy had passed. According to reports, the kidnappers targeted an 18-seater BD Express bus en route from Otukpo, Benue State, to Lagos.
Emmanuel Unubi, Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, confirmed the incident, noting that security personnel accompanying Salifu responded swiftly after receiving an alert, preventing the attack.
The Nigerian Army, Police, and local vigilante groups were immediately notified, with the Deputy Governor ordering a manhunt for the suspects.
Expressing concern over persistent kidnapping incidents in the area, Salifu directed the establishment of a permanent security checkpoint at the location. He emphasized the state government’s determination under Governor Usman Ododo to stamp out criminal activities and restore peace.
Salifu further called on the youth in Ejule, Ochadamu, and nearby communities to shun crime and report suspicious activities, warning that perpetrators would face legal consequences
