The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of Chief Samuel Ajayi Bello, who was seized while working on his farm at the Ponyan Agricultural Foundation, located at KM 2, Ponyan-Irele Road, Ponyan, Yagba East Local Council.

The incident, which occurred at about 10:00 a.m. on Monday, adds to a series of kidnappings that have unsettled Yagba East and Yagba West Local Councils.

The spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command, SP William Aya, disclosed that the Commissioner of Police (CP), Miller Dantawaye, has deployed a tactical command to the area to rescue the victim and apprehend the perpetrators.

“Yes, it has been confirmed that a farmer, Chief Samuel Ajayi Bello, was abducted earlier this morning. The CP has deployed the tactical command to the area, and one of the hunters who sustained gunshot wounds is receiving treatment and is responding well,” he said.

In a related statement, the National President of the Ponyan Development Association, Banjo Fabola, corroborated the incident.

“Reports indicate that Chief Samuel Ajayi Bello was kidnapped by bandits at his farm, the Ponyan Agricultural Foundation, KM 2, Ponyan-Irele Road, Ponyan, Yagba East Local Council, at about 10:00 a.m. Shots were fired before he was taken, and security operatives, local hunters, and vigilante groups have been mobilised to search the surrounding forests.

“Meanwhile, one of the hunters pursuing the kidnappers sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange of fire. We are seeking any possible assistance to secure his release,” Fabola said.