Gunmen kill Kogi APC chairman, abduct passenger

Gunmen have killed the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, Ishaq Yunusa, and abducted another person travelling with him.

The attack occurred around 5pm on Thursday along the Itobe-Ochadamu Expressway, near Ojuwo Olijo in Ofu Local Government Area.

The state police spokesperson, ASP Afusat Saliu, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Friday in Lokoja.

According to the police, the attackers emerged from the bush and opened fire on vehicles plying the highway before fleeing into the surrounding forest.

A blue Toyota Corolla with registration number GWA 636 CH was later discovered abandoned on the road. Yunusa, who was driving the vehicle, was found dead inside, while another occupant was reportedly taken away by the gunmen.

Saliu said security operatives had launched a search operation in the area to rescue the abducted victim and track down the attackers.

She added that Yunusa’s remains had been evacuated to Grimard Hospital in Anyigba for autopsy, while investigators were pursuing leads that could help identify those responsible for the attack.

The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Bello Kankarofi, ordered intensified patrols and sustained operations along the affected route, directing officers to ensure the perpetrators were brought to justice.

The command also urged residents and motorists using the corridor to remain alert and report suspicious persons or movements to security agencies.

The incident comes days after gunmen abducted several NYSC members travelling through Kogi, with the police later announcing the rescue of 11 victims.