The Kogi State Police Command has launched an investigation into an armed attack along the Itobe–Ochadamu Expressway in the Ofu Local Government Area of the state, which resulted in the death of an All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman and the abduction of another individual.
The deceased, identified as Ishaq Yunusa, was the APC Divisional Chairman for the Dekina Local Government Area.
The attack occurred around 5:00 p.m. on Thursday near Ojuwo Olijo, where armed assailants emerged from the surrounding bush and opened fire indiscriminately on motorists traveling along the highway.
Reports indicate that a blue Toyota Corolla was later discovered abandoned on the road after the attackers fled the scene. Yunusa, who was driving the vehicle, was found dead inside, while another occupant was abducted and taken into the surrounding forest.
The incident prompted an immediate security response along the affected corridor, with the police deploying operatives into the forest to rescue the abducted victim and track down the assailants.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Afusat, stated that the command is actively working to locate the victim and apprehend the perpetrators.
This development follows a spate of recent attacks and abductions on highways across Kogi State, heightening safety concerns for motorists and commuters.
The Itobe–Ochadamu corridor serves as a vital transit link between several communities, making security along the route critical for local travel and commerce.
In response, the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, ordered sustained security operations along the highway and directed operatives to intensify their search for the culprits.
The command also appealed to residents and motorists to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to assist the investigation.
Meanwhile, Yunusa’s body has been deposited at Grimard Hospital in Anyigba for an autopsy, while police operations to bring the attackers to justice remain underway.