Armed bandits have abducted a member of the Niger State Electoral Commission, a former chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and several other officials in a late-night raid. Security forces responding to the incident killed three of the kidnappers during an exchange of fire.
According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen stormed the victims’ convoy on a rural road, forcing them into waiting vehicles before retreating into the bush. The daring attack has sent shockwaves across the state, raising concerns about security ahead of local elections.
A joint team of vigilante groups and security operatives pursued the attackers, killing three during the chase. However, the abducted officials remain in captivity, and rescue operations are ongoing.
Governor Umar Bago condemned the attack, describing it as “a direct assault on democracy and governance.” He assured that the state government is working closely with security agencies to secure the release of the abducted persons.
