Armed assailants have abducted three family members of Malam Ahmed Tahir Ajobe, a respected journalist and former editor at Daily Trust. The attackers are reportedly demanding a ransom of N50 million for their release.
The abduction occurred on Thursday evening along the poorly maintained Ankpa-Adoka-Makurdi road near Awo in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State. Among those taken were two women and a man, including Ajobe’s younger sister, Halimtu-Sadiya Tahir.
Sources close to the family revealed to VANGUARD that the victims were returning from a nearby market where they had gone to purchase supplies. The items were intended for a prayer ceremony to honor their late mother, Malama Aishetu Tahir, who had passed away earlier in the week following a prolonged illness.
“The kidnappers contacted the family on Friday, demanding N50 million,” a family acquaintance told VANGUARD. “Negotiations are still ongoing, but no ransom has been paid yet, and the victims are still being held.”
Authorities have confirmed the incident. Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer William Aya stated that law enforcement is actively pursuing the criminals. “Officers have been mobilized, and investigations are underway to ensure the safe return of the victims,” Aya noted.
Furthermore, Police Commissioner Bethrand Onuoha has directed a tactical team to intensify rescue operations. The police have assured residents of their commitment to resolving the matter swiftly and ensuring justice is served.
