Security agencies and local hunters have rescued 17 passengers kidnapped along the Lokoja–Obajana Road of Kogi State last Thursday.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications in the state, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the Kogi State government confirmed that the victims were freed following prompt intervention of the Nigerian Army and local hunters, who pursued the abductors and ensured the safe release of all passengers.
Fanwo said the rescued victims have since been taken to medical facilities for examination and care.
The government also expressed deep concern over reported attack on security operatives in Yagba West local government area, resulting in the death of some police officers.
While expressing condolence to the families of the slain officers, the State described the victims as gallant men who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.
Fanwo stated that Governor Usman Ododo has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to rid the State of criminal elements, assuring that personnel and security equipment were being deployed to strategic locations to restore security.
He called on citizens to cooperate with security operatives by providing timely and useful information, stressing that the perpetrators of the attacks will be brought to justice.
Fanwo vowed that, “The Government of Kogi State will never submit to acts of terror,” assuring, “Together with the support of the people and the commitment of our security agencies, we will overcome those who seek to disrupt the peace of our land”.
LEADERSHIP recalls that three policemen were killed on Tuesday, in Egbe, a border community between Kogi and Kwara States, where kidnappings and other violent crimes have been on the rise in recent time.
