Kidnappers in the neighbourhood
The stories of kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, hostage-taking, and other vices were once alien to Africa, and Nigeria in particular. In the past, we would hear of such incidents in faraway countries on the radio, television, and other news outlets. Today, the situation has changed, and we are now grappling with these deviant trends. In Nigeria, it has become almost impossible to accurately count the number of kidnapping incidents, as the numbers continue to rise. The situation has become so dire that no one can keep track anymore.
On November 5, 2022, in broad daylight on the busy Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, kidnappers struck again. They used a commercial minibus, commonly known as a “korope” in Lagos, to abduct four people. Among the victims was a Police Mobile Inspector, who later managed to escape and report the incident at the Ifo Police Station. A manhunt was immediately launched to track down the kidnappers.
On November 12, 2022, the kidnappers fled due to the police’s intense search. However, the victims were rescued in a forest in Owode Egbado, Ogun State, and were taken to a hospital after police documentation. Tragically, two of the victims, having lost consciousness due to dehydration and lack of regular food, died in the hospital.
One of the survivors, Mr. Oriade David, managed to contact his family, and, at their request, the police took him to Lagos General Hospital where he was treated and later discharged to reunite with his family. However, for some time now, Mr. Oriade David has not been seen by his family or friends. His whereabouts remain unknown, and his mobile phone is unreachable.
It is feared that the kidnappers may have targeted him once again, and that he may have lost his life in their custody. His family has reported his disappearance to the authorities, but no information has been forthcoming. The family is devastated by the loss and continues to pray fervently, hoping that, if he is still alive, he will one day be returned to them. They cling to the belief that God will bring their beloved brother home.
