Bandits abduct widow of PDP boss, 13 others in Kogi

Gunmen have kidnapped 14 persons from Okunland, Kogi State, including the widow of Matthew Kola-Ojo, former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) zonal chairman.

The victims were kidnapped between Iffe and Egbeda in Ijumu Council.

Mrs. Kola-Ojo was travelling for the first time after concluding the mandatory mourning period of her husband, from Okoro-Gbede, when she was kidnapped.

The Guardian gathered that five of the victims, excluding the widow, were later released.

Confirming the story, the President, Okun Development Association (ODA), Chief Femi Mokikan, said that information at his disposal showed that eight persons were released by the kidnappers.

He also said that the kidnappers had established contact with a relative of Mrs. Kola-Ojo, but were yet to make demands.

Mokikan said: “The person they called was an uncle to the woman, telling him they had Mrs. Kola-Ojo in their custody. But before they could state their ransom, the man’s phone went flat. We are hoping that they will call back today.

“I got the information about the kidnap saga about 10.30 a.m. and we started shouting to those that matter, including the Senior Security Adviser to the Governor, for help.”

“ODA, in collaboration with Ijumu Council officials are working round the clock for their release, urging for prayer for Okunland.”