On Saturday evening, the Kogi State Government officially announced the successful rescue of 21 individuals who had been kidnapped in the Ajaokuta Local Government Area.
The confirmation came through a statement from the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Onogwu Muhammed. The victims, initially taken along the Ajaokuta-Itobe road on Thursday, were freed by a collaborative effort involving the Nigerian Police Force, Civil Defence, and local vigilantes.
The statement said, “The victims, predominantly travelers, had been whisked away to an unknown destination within the dense forest around the Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi State.
“Upon receiving the report of this distressing incident, His Excellency, Yahaya Bello, promptly issued directives to both security agencies and local vigilantes to embark on immediate actions that will lead to the freedom of the captives. He said the perpetrators of this reprehensible act must also be fished out.
“This directive underscored Governor Bello’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the citizens/residents under his charge.
“The determined efforts of the combined security forces yielded results within 48 hours, leading to the successful release of the 21 captives.”
The statement added that the operation led to the arrest of some of the kidnappers while those still at large are being trailed.
According to the statement, Governor Yahaya Bello commended the security operatives for their rapid and effective response.
“Governor Bello seized the opportunity to issue a stern warning to those with nefarious intentions and warned criminals against migrating to Kogi for illicit activities.
“The Governor unequivocally declared Kogi as a no-go area for all forms of criminalities, making it clear that his administration would spare no effort in safeguarding the peace and security of the state,” the statement added.
