Bandits have abducted Ahmed Mohammed, Commissioner Seven of the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission, popularly known as Barrister Ahmed Lawyer, along with his driver, former SUBEB Chairman Mohammed Bawa Niworu, and scores of motorists.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, September 29, around Ibbi National Park along the Zugurma-Ibbi to New Bussa road in Mashegu Local Government Area.

A source in the area said the victims were returning from Borgu when the attack occurred. “Their vehicle was later found parked by the roadside, with the victims’ mobile phones left inside,” the source said.

It was reported that the bandits blocked the road ahead of a police checkpoint before ambushing the victims along the Ibbi-Bussa route. A tactical team from the police engaged the attackers, repelling them, though one officer sustained a gunshot injury and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

A driver who regularly operates Sharon vehicles on the route said that three Sharon buses with passengers were abducted to unknown locations during the incident.
When contacted, Niger State Police Command spokesman SP Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the attack.

He said a police patrol vehicle was damaged by gunfire during the confrontation.

“The Police command has mobilised more tactical teams with other security agencies and vigilante members trailing the suspected kidnappers with a view to rescue the abducted victims and possibly arrest the hoodlums,” SP Abiodun added.

Authorities continue to investigate the incident and coordinate efforts to secure the release of those abducted.