Gunmen abduct journalist’s relatives in Kogi, demand ₦50m ransom

Gunmen on Thursday evening abducted three relatives of former Daily Trust Editor, Malam Ahmed Tahir Ajobe.

The victims, including Ajobe’s younger sister, Halimtu-Sadiya Tahir, were kidnapped on their way back from a local market in Awo, Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State, along the deteriorated Ankpa-Adoka-Makurdi road.

The family had reportedly gone to the market to purchase items for the seventh-day prayers for Ajobe’s late mother, Malama Aishetu Tahir, who passed away on Sunday after a prolonged illness.

A family friend disclosed that the kidnappers have demanded N50 million for the release of the victims. “The kidnappers contacted the family on Friday afternoon. No ransom has been paid yet, and the victims remain in captivity,” the source stated.

Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya, confirmed the incident and said the Divisional Police Officer in the area has deployed officers to secure the victims’ rescue.

Police Commissioner Bethrand Onuoha has also dispatched a tactical team to reinforce the efforts, assuring the public of their commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.