Suspected kidnappers abduct traditional ruler in Edo

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted the traditional ruler of Udo-Eguare, His Royal Highness, Friday Ehizojie, Onojie, in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State.

He was allegedly kidnapped on Sunday evening at a forest between Ubiaja, by Rest House Junction, and Udo community while on a commercial motorcycle.

The gunmen reportedly ambushed the motorcycle, shooting the Okada rider dead before kidnapping the traditional ruler.

A source said five other persons were reportedly kidnapped alongside the traditional ruler, but one allegedly escaped from captivity.

The spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, Moses Yamu, said they received a report of the unfortunate kidnap of some persons, including the Onogie of Udo-Eguare, a 21-year-old man.

“He was riding as a passenger on a motorcycle along a lonely path leading to the community when they were ambushed by unknown persons. In the process, the Okada rider was shot dead before the Onogie was abducted.”

He said the state Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, ordered the immediate deployment of the command’s tactical teams, including the Police Mobile Force, to that area to ensure the rescue of the victims and the arrest of the culprits.

He noted that the Area Commander is personally on the ground, commanding the operation as directed by the Commissioner of Police.