Dare Babalola
There was tension in the Shinge area of Lafia, Nasarawa State capital as Barrister Yusuf Musa, the state’s Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Tourism, and Culture was abducted from his home.
The development was confirmed on Tuesday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Ramhan Nansel, who said the crime was carried out by suspected gunmen.
Nansel disclosed that the incident was discovered by officers on patrol, adding that a statewide manhunt has been launched to rescue the victim and apprehend the gunmen.
The PPRO said in a statement, “At about 0305hrs, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a patrol team from B Division, Lafia, discovered a Peugeot pick-up van with all doors left wide open in a suspicious manner.
“Upon closer examination, officers observed that the gate to the victim’s residence was also ajar, prompting immediate security concern.”
In addition, Nansel said the permanent secretary’s GMC vehicle bearing registration number KUJ 88 PA was also missing.
Following the discovery, the state Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, activated a tactical operation across Nasarawa, including divisions in Akwanga, Andaha, Garaku, and Kadarko, while surveillance was deployed along key routes to intercept the suspects.
The statement added that the Commissioner has “ordered an intensive statewide manhunt and reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the victim’s safe rescue and the immediate apprehension of those behind the act.”
The police urged the public to remain calm and provide useful information.
“The Nasarawa State Police Command urges members of the public to remain calm and vigilant. Anyone with useful information is encouraged to report to the nearest police station or call the Command’s emergency lines on 08036157659, 08037461715, and 07032532391,” the statement added.
