The Police Command in Kogi State has confirmed the abduction of a traditional ruler, Oba James Ogunyanda, in Yagba West Local Government of the state.
The Command spokesman, SP Williams Ovye-Aya confirmed the incident on Thursday in Lokoja.
He said the Commissioner of Police, Mr Miller Dantawaye, has directed all Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) within Kogi West to rise to the challenge to rescue the traditional ruler with immediate effect.
Dantawaye also urged them to liaise with other security agents and the Vigilante group to launch a formidable rescue operation to track down the abductors.
Oba Ogunyanda is the traditional ruler of Okoloke, a border town with Kwara State.
The royal father was allegedly abducted in the early hours on Thursday in his palace, and the incident has caused panic across the area, where there’s growing cases of kidnapping.
An eye witness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said a group of armed men stormed the monarch’s palace in Okoloke about 2 a.m, overpowered the palace guards and forcefully whisked the monarch away to an unknown location.
“They are yet to make contact nor issue any ransom demands, deepening anxiety among residents, relatives, and members of the royal household.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Council, Mr Tosin Olokun, has condemned the abduction of the monarch in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Adeyemi Sunday.
“This reprehensible attack on a revered traditional ruler is a direct affront to our cultural values and peaceful coexistence. It is unacceptable and stands condemned.
“Security operatives, in collaboration with local hunters, have launched coordinated operations to rescue the abducted monarch and others held captive.
“Search efforts are ongoing, with intensified surveillance in key areas.
“The local government is working closely with all relevant security agencies to ensure prompt and decisive action,” Olokun said.
He appealed to the people to remain calm and cooperative, and to report any suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest authorities.
