Gunmen have killed two people and abducted 30 travellers in Ayegunle Bunu, Kabba-Bunu LGA of Kogi state, in a fresh attack that has heightened security concerns in the state.
The victims were travelling in a commercial bus when suspected terrorists intercepted the vehicle and whisked away its occupants.
Confirming the incident on Monday, the spokesperson of the Kogi State Police Command, Saliu Oyiza, said 30 persons were abducted during the attack, while two others lost their lives.
“Yes, people were kidnapped, but there were 30 people who were kidnapped,” Oyiza said.
“Four of them are female, and twenty-six are male, and two people were also killed during the attack.”
The police spokesperson said security agencies have commenced efforts to rescue the victims and track down the perpetrators.
The attack occurred less than 24 hours after the Kogi State Government suspended the Echane Festival in Ebiraland over security concerns.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Kingsley Fanwo, the commissioner for information and communications said the decision followed credible intelligence reports indicating that activities associated with the festival could threaten public peace and lead to a breakdown of law and order in parts of Kogi central senatorial district.
Fanwo said Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo approved the suspension as a preventive security measure and directed security agencies to ensure strict compliance.
According to him, the government would not allow any activity capable of undermining public safety and security in the state.
He warned that individuals or groups found organising or participating in activities related to the suspended festival would face legal consequences.
