The Police Command in Kogi 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 to the News Agency Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Lokoja.
He said the Commissioner of Police, Mr Miller Dantawaye, has directed all Divisional Police Officers 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.
The royal father, Ogunyanda, was allegedly abducted in the early hours of Thursday in his palace, and the incident has caused panic across the area, where there are 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 at about 2:00 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.
