Gunmen Kill Kogi APC Chairman, Abduct Passenger Along Itobe-Ochadamu Road

Gunmen have killed the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, Hon. Ishaq Yunusa, and abducted another occupant of his vehicle.

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

Yunusa was reportedly travelling to Lokoja in a blue Toyota Corolla when the attackers emerged from the surrounding bush and opened fire on vehicles along the route.

His body was later found inside the vehicle after the gunmen fled into the bush.

The other occupant of the car was reportedly forced out of the vehicle and taken away by the attackers.

Police launch manhunt

The Kogi State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the attack and launched a search operation for the abducted victim and the perpetrators.

The command’s spokesperson, ASP Saliu Afusat, said security operatives had been deployed to the area and were combing the surrounding forests in an effort to rescue the abducted victim and apprehend those responsible.

Yunusa’s remains were evacuated to Grimard Hospital in Anyigba, where an autopsy is expected to be conducted as part of investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, has ordered intensified and sustained security operations along the affected route.

He also directed security personnel to pursue the attackers and ensure that the abducted victim is rescued safely.

The police urged residents and motorists using the Itobe-Ochadamu corridor to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies.

The latest attack comes amid growing security concerns along some major highways in Kogi State, with kidnapping and armed attacks continuing to pose risks to motorists and commuters.