Gunmen kidnap journalist’s relations, demand N50m ransom

Gunmen have abducted three relations of former Daily Trust Editor, Ahmed Ajobe, at Awo in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The victims included Ajobe’s immediate younger sister, Halimtu-Sadiya Tahir.

It was gathered that the victims were kidnapped by the gunmen while returning from a market in the nearby community in Awo on Thursday, November 21, 2024.

The Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya, confirmed the incident on Friday, November 22.

Aya said the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the area had already deployed his officers to the area to ensure the rescue of the victims.

Aya stated that the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, had also ordered the drafting of the police tactical team to the area to reinforce the team on ground.

He assured that everything possible would be done to ensure the safe release of the victims and also bring the criminals to justice.

Gunmen kill lawyer in Benue

Although the journalist could not be reached for details on the incident, his family friend, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the gunmen were demanding N50 million ransom for the release of the victims.

He said Ajobe lost his mother, Aishetu Tahir, on Sunday, following a protracted illness.

He added that the abduction occurred when the victims went to the market to purchase items for the seven-day prayers of the journalist’s late mother.

He said: “Yes, three of Ajobe’s family members were kidnapped at gunpoint at about 3 p.m. on Thursday.

“The kidnappers reached out on Friday afternoon demanding N50 million ransom.

“However, I can’t confirm what the family is offering in the negotiations because I had to leave the community for an emergency in Lokoja.

“What I can say is that no amount has yet been paid and the victims are still in captivity.”

The Star