Some unidentified gunmen have abducted a 76-year-old cleric, Pastor Joe Ajayi, from his home in Odo-Ape, located in the Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Pastor Ajayi, a former Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kabba-Bunu and a retired Major of the Nigerian Army, was taken by the armed assailants late Wednesday night at approximately 11:30 p.m.
Eyewitnesses testified that the attackers invaded the community, firing sporadically for over an hour before abducting the retired military officer and taking him to an undisclosed location.
Local residents who noted that the abducted Pastor is battling a health condition have expressed serious concern for him, especially with his age.
The People’s Insight recall that days earlier, some abductors have decided tradition by storming the sacred palace of Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okoloke, and taking him into custody.
Reports fiked disclosed that heavily armed men stormed the monarchโs palace around 2 a.m. last Thursday, overwhelmed the palace guards, and abducted the king in a swift operation.
The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the incident.
In response, the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government, Tosin Olokun, issued a statement strongly condemning the monarchโs abduction.
This reprehensible attack on a reverred traditional ruler is a direct affront to our cultural values and peaceful coexistence. It is unacceptable and stands condemned.”
“In swift response, security operatives, in collaboration with local hunters, have launched coordinated operations to rescue the abducted monarch and others held captive. Search efforts are ongoing, with intensified surveillance in key areas.”
“The local government is working closely with all relevant security agencies to ensure prompt and decisive action. Every available resource is being deployed to secure the safe return of His Royal Highness and others in captivity.”
“We appeal to the good people of Yagba West, especially residents of Okoloke and surrounding communities, to remain calm and cooperative. While we understand the fear and concern this situation may cause, we urge everyone to stay alert and security conscious.”
The abduction of the clergy and monarch has for the umpteenth time communicated the level of intensity with which insecurity is plaguing the country.
Although, it is believed that with concerted effort from both the government and citizens, this menace that has tormented the nation for long will eventually be curbed.
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