Is Kogi Becoming Unsafe for Daytime Travel? Bandits Kidnap Resident on Egbe-Okoloke Road as Yagba West Communities Demand Urgent Security Action

Is insecurity in Kogi State spiralling out of control, even in broad daylight? Fear gripped residents of Yagba West Local Government Area on Friday after suspected bandits abducted a man identified as Lanlege along the Egbe-Okoloke Road, a route increasingly notorious for criminal attacks.

According to local sources, the victim was travelling for his daily activities when he was intercepted and forcibly taken away by armed assailants. The fact that the kidnapping occurred during the day has heightened anxiety among commuters and nearby communities, who say that no time of day now feels safe on major roads in the area.

The incident has intensified long-standing concerns over rising insecurity in Yagba West, where residents report frequent kidnappings, killings, and the takeover of farmlands by criminal groups. Community members are calling for urgent government intervention, intensified patrols, and sustained security presence to prevent further attacks and to secure the release of the abducted victim. Motorists have also been advised to exercise extreme caution when using the Egbe-Okoloke Road pending improved security measures.

This latest attack comes amid growing public frustration across parts of Kogi State. Recently, youths in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area staged protests over worsening violence and the abandonment of communities, only to be dispersed by police using tear gas. Protesters carried placards reading “Bunuland Bleeds” and “Why Should We Ask for Permission to Live?,” lamenting that dozens of communities—such as Kayetoro, Kiri, and Ole—have been deserted due to repeated attacks and killings.

Residents say fear has forced many families to flee their ancestral homes, while others accuse authorities of failing to protect lives and property. Reports of multiple abductions on other routes, including the Omi-Odo Ara Road, have further deepened anxiety in Yagba West and surrounding areas.

As kidnappings continue and protests erupt over insecurity, many are asking urgent questions: How safe are Kogi’s highways? Why are criminal groups able to operate openly in the daytime? And what concrete steps will security agencies take to stop the growing wave of abductions before more lives are disrupted?

Bandits Attack Idofin Community In Kogi State, Kill One Resident, Injure Another As Fear Grows Over Rising Insecurity In Yagba East

Bandits have attacked Idofin community in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing one person and seriously injuring another in a fresh wave of insecurity in the area. The attack occurred between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, according to information gathered by SaharaReporters.

The deceased was identified as a Tiv man, while another indigene of the community sustained severe injuries during the assault. A local platform, Egbe Mekun, reported that the injured victim was later evacuated by military personnel and taken to an undisclosed hospital for treatment.

As of the time of filing the report, neither the Kogi State Government nor the Nigerian Police had issued an official statement on the incident. Residents have continued to express fear and frustration over repeated attacks in Yagba East and neighbouring communities, urging the state government and security agencies to urgently strengthen security to prevent further loss of lives.

The attack adds to growing concerns over insecurity in Kogi State, following a recent incident in Ayetoro-Kiri community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, where three abducted residents reportedly died despite the payment of ransom. While seven abductees were eventually released, several others were hospitalised, and about 30 residents were said to remain in captivity.

Community leaders have accused authorities of failing to take decisive action against the perpetrators, alleging that peaceful protesters demanding security and justice were instead tear-gassed and arrested. The latest attack in Idofin has further heightened calls for urgent government intervention to protect lives and restore peace in affected communities.

Kogi Community in Mourning as Three Residents Die After Bandits’ Abduction Despite Ransom Payment, 30 Others Still Held Captive in Bunu Land

Ayetoro-Kiri community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State has been plunged into grief following the death of three residents who were abducted by bandits, even after a ransom was painfully raised and paid through communal contributions. According to the community, seven abductees were released, but three were confirmed dead on arrival, while four others are hospitalised in critical condition. About 30 residents remain in captivity, with their fate unknown.

The tragedy has sparked anger and despair across Bunu land, as residents accuse authorities of negligence and failure to provide adequate security. In a statement signed by community spokesperson David Ampitan, the people lamented that instead of rescuing victims or pursuing the kidnappers, government officials allegedly responded by tear-gassing and arresting peaceful protesters demanding action.

Residents described the situation as a complete collapse of security governance, noting that communities have been deserted due to persistent killings and kidnappings. They appealed to the Federal Government and security agencies to urgently intervene, rescue those still held captive, restore security across the district, and hold accountable officials accused of ignoring the humanitarian crisis, insisting that “the lives of Bunu people matter.”

Kogi Youths Teargassed by Police While Protesting Rampant Killings, Kidnappings and Abandonment of 44 Communities in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area

Police operatives on Friday dispersed protesting youths from Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State with teargas as they demonstrated against worsening insecurity, frequent killings, kidnappings and the abandonment of dozens of communities in Bunuland. The protesters, mostly youths, blocked a major road during the peaceful protest, chanting solidarity songs and displaying placards with messages such as “Bunuland Bleeds” and “Why Should We Ask for Permission to Live?”

One of the protesters said that out of 44 communities in Bunuland, many had been completely deserted as residents fled persistent attacks by armed groups. He cited communities such as Kayetoro, Kiri and Ole, where several people had reportedly been killed in recent incidents, forcing survivors to abandon their ancestral homes out of fear. Despite the presence of police and the firing of teargas, the protesters insisted they would not back down in their demand for urgent government intervention.

However, the protest was eventually disrupted as police fired multiple rounds of teargas, forcing the demonstrators to disperse and clearing the road. Residents of Kabba-Bunu and neighbouring areas have repeatedly accused authorities of failing to protect lives and farmlands amid rising cases of killings, kidnappings and attacks on communities.

The protest comes amid a series of recent security incidents in Kogi State, including reported abductions along the Omi-Odo Ara Road in Yagba West Local Government Area and a coordinated terrorist attack on Odo-Ere community, where at least four residents were kidnapped. The developments highlight growing frustration among local communities over insecurity and the perceived inaction of government and security agencies.

Yoruba Union Condemns President Tinubu’s Christmas Holiday Amid Kogi ECWA Church Abductions, Calls for Immediate Action on National Insecurity

The Yoruba Union, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, has condemned President Bola Tinubu for reportedly planning to spend Christmas with his family while victims of abduction, including ECWA Church worshippers in Ayetoro Kiri, Kogi State, remain in captivity. The group criticized the government’s failure to prioritize citizen safety amid worsening insecurity across Nigeria, highlighting ongoing kidnappings, ransom demands, and the suffering of families. The union urged the President to cancel his holiday, personally visit affected areas, and direct security agencies to intensify rescue operations, dismantle criminal networks, and ensure justice for abductees.

Residents Flee Kogi’s Ayetoro Kiri Community As Gunmen Attack ECWA Church, Abduct Over 20 Worshippers, Leaving Town Completely Deserted

Residents of Ayetoro Kiri community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State have fled their homes following a deadly security scare triggered by an attack on the First ECWA Church, where armed assailants abducted more than 20 worshippers during a Sunday service. The violent incident, which occurred on December 14, has plunged the community into fear, forcing families to relocate to nearby towns and villages amid the absence of visible security reassurance. Videos from the area show empty streets, locked homes, fleeing residents and vandalised buildings, underscoring the growing humanitarian and security crisis as the fate of the abducted worshippers remains unknown.

Breaking: Bandits Kidnap Elder Brother of Yagba West LGA Chairman in Kogi State

The elder brother of the Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area, Kogi State, Mr. Tosin Oluokun, has been abducted by bandits while working on his farm. The incident highlights the growing insecurity in the region, where rural communities and farmers face repeated kidnappings. Earlier, gunmen also attacked the First ECWA Church in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu LGA, abducting at least 20 worshippers. Residents are increasingly concerned and calling for stronger security measures to curb banditry and protect vulnerable communities.

BREAKING: Over 20 Worshippers Kidnapped As Gunmen Attack ECWA Church in Kogi State

No fewer than 20 worshippers were abducted on Sunday after heavily armed gunmen attacked the First ECWA Church in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State. The attackers stormed the church during an ongoing worship service, firing sporadically to cause panic before seizing several congregants and escaping through nearby bush paths. One person was reportedly killed in the attack, which has heightened fear and insecurity in the area. The incident marks the second church attack in Okun land within weeks, raising renewed concerns over worsening security and repeated assaults on places of worship in Kogi State.

BREAKING: Bandits Attack ECWA Church In Kogi, Kill One, Abduct Worshippers

Armed bandits attacked the First ECWA Church in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, during an early morning service on Sunday, December 14, 2025, killing one worshipper identified as Jayjay and abducting several others. The exact number of victims taken remains unclear as security agencies continue investigations. The incident marks the second church attack in Okun land within weeks, following a similar assault in Ejiba, Yagba West LGA, and has intensified fears over worsening insecurity in the area, prompting calls for urgent government intervention.

Over 600 Homes Destroyed As Ocean Surge Devastates Ayetoro Community In Ondo

More than 600 homes and key community structures have been destroyed in Ayetoro, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, as a worsening Atlantic Ocean surge continues to erode the coastline. A video shared by civic group MonITNG shows collapsed buildings, wiped-out streets, and desperate efforts by residents to shield the historic community palace with concrete barriers. Locals say the ocean has advanced to within five metres of the landmark.

Residents accused authorities of neglect despite earlier federal warnings about rising sea levels. They called for urgent intervention, including coastal defenses and land reclamation, as schools, markets, churches, and farmlands have already been swept away, displacing hundreds of families.


#Ayetoro

#OndoState

Council of State Approves Prof. Amupitan (SAN) as New INEC Chairman.

The National Council of State on Thursday approved the nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

President Bola Tinubu presented Amupitan’s name to the council during its meeting at the State House, Abuja, following the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served from 2015 to October 2025.

In a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Amupitan as an apolitical nominee and the first person from Kogi State in Nigeria’s North-Central region to be nominated for the position.

Council members unanimously endorsed the nomination, with Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo describing the nominee as a man of “proven integrity.”

Following the council’s approval, the President will transmit Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation in accordance with constitutional provisions.

Amupitan, 58, hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. A Professor of Law at the University of Jos and an alumnus of the same institution, he specialises in Company Law, Law of Evidence, Corporate Governance, and Privatisation Law.

He was conferred with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in September 2014 and has authored several works on corporate and commercial law.

If confirmed, Amupitan will succeed Yakubu as Nigeria’s chief electoral umpire, overseeing the nation’s electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Kogi Govt Laments Gruesome Murder Of Durowaye, Vows To Ensure Justice.

The Kogi State government has lamented the gruesome murder of Mr. Folusho Durowaye and has vowed to ensure that justice is delivered.

In a press statement signed by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications yesterday,
the government expressed sadness over what it described as the tragic and senseless killing of Mr. Durowaye which occurred on Friday at Ayetoro Kiri in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of the state.

The statement reads, ‘We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the people of Ayetoro Kiri, and the entire Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area in this difficult time. The loss of a valued member of the community under such violent circumstances is distressing, and we share in their grief.

“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed all relevant security agencies to immediately intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act. He has also mandated a thorough and expedited investigation to ensure justice is served.

“The State Security Adviser has been instructed to beef up security around Ayetoro Kiri and neighboring areas to protect residents and prevent any recurrence of such incidents.

“The Kogi State Government condemns this act of violence in the strongest terms and assures the people that the safety and security of all citizens remain paramount in the administration’s priorities.

“We urge members of the public to remain calm and cooperate fully with security operatives by providing any information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators. It is also expedient to provide credible intelligence that is required to prevent isolated occurrences such as the one that happened this morning.

“The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining peace, security, and the rule of law across the State.”

I Have Been Working With Kidnappers To Set Up Members Of Their Own Community For Abduction- Suspect.

According to a report by the Punch, on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the Kogi State Government has confirmed the arrest of two suspected informants involved in kidnapping activities in the Okunland area of the state.

This development was announced by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, who provided details in an official statement.

The arrests are part of an ongoing operation aimed at dismantling kidnapping networks operating within the region.

According to Fanwo, the breakthrough came after the confession of a previously arrested suspect, Babatunde Aledare.

Currently in the custody of security agencies, Aledare’s confession led authorities to two more suspects—Dare Okegbe and Lakutu Omobab Ajelesimi.

Both individuals were apprehended within the past 48 hours and are reportedly from Ayetoro Kiri, a community in Kogi State.

In a shocking revelation, Fanwo stated that the newly arrested suspects admitted to collaborating with kidnappers and betraying members of their own community.

“Following the confession of Babatunde Aledare, two more informants have been arrested in the last 48 hours: they are Dare Okegbe and Lakutu Omobab Ajelesimi. Both suspects are also from Ayetoro Kiri and have confessed to working with kidnappers to set up members of their own community for abduction,” the Commissioner said.

Fanwo emphasized that these arrests represent a major step forward in the state government’s campaign to combat insecurity.

He described the incident as a significant stride in the ongoing efforts to dismantle organized kidnapping operations, which have increasingly threatened peace and stability in the region.

The Commissioner also reassured the public that more arrests are expected as investigations unfold, indicating that security forces are actively pursuing additional leads.

MattersKogi Government Confirms Arrest of Kidnapping Informants in Ayetoro Kiri.

The Kogi State Government has confirmed that Babatunde Aledare, a suspected informant for kidnappers earlier arrested in Ayetoro Kiri, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, has made confessional statements revealing the identities of other collaborators involved in kidnapping activities in the region.

Following Aledare’s confession, two additional suspects — Dare Okegbe and Lakutu Omobab Ajelesimi — were arrested within the last 48 hours. Both individuals are also residents of Ayetoro Kiri and have reportedly confessed to aiding kidnappers by targeting and setting up members of their own community for abduction.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on July 15, 2025, by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo.

“This development marks another significant stride in our sustained efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks in Okunland,” Fanwo stated. “More arrests are expected as investigations progress.”

He reiterated the Kogi State Government’s unwavering commitment to public safety, emphasizing that the administration will “leave no stone unturned in the fight against criminality.”

Security operatives uncover bread sellers, sachet water factories supplying kidnappers in Kogi.

The Kogi state government says it has uncovered a network of criminal collaborators aiding kidnapping gangs across parts of the state.


In a statement on Sunday, Kingsley Fanwo, the state commissioner for information and communications, said joint security forces initiated a series of targeted operations in Kabba/Bunu, Ijumu, Yagba East, and Yagba West LGAs in response to recent spikes in insecurity.

He said the operations followed the kidnapping and subsequent death of a retired army officer from Odo-Ape, the abduction of a prominent farmer from Ponyan in Yagba East, and other similar incidents in Yagba West.

He said the abducted farmer and several others were freed within days through sustained security efforts.

“One of the key revelations from these operations emerged from the case of the late Samson Enietan, a notorious criminal informant who was alleged to have committed suicide after his activities were exposed,” the statement reads.

“While preliminary claims suggest he committed suicide, the Kogi State Government disputes this version of events, pointing instead to a likely internal execution by fellow conspirators, afraid he might expose more names.”

Fanwo said in a related operation, victims kidnapped from Kiri in Kabba/Bunu were also rescued.

He said their testimonies provided critical leads, including the arrest of Babatunde Aledare, a native of Ayetoro Kiri, who confessed to being a key informant within the criminal network.