By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Gunmen suspected to be bandits have abducted a woman and her two children in Isanlu, Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, leaving the husband critically injured after sustaining gunshot wounds while trying to escape.
The attack occurred around 2:00 a.m. on Friday at the family residence of Mr. Tokpe Gody in Bareke, Isanlu. According to local sources, the assailants invaded the home and shot Gody twice as he attempted to resist the abduction of his family.
A member of the Kogi State Vigilante Agency, who confirmed the incident, said the gunmen later contacted the family, demanding N100 million as ransom for the release of the victims.
“One of us received a call from the kidnappers this morning. They used a private number and demanded ₦100 million before releasing the wife and children,” the vigilante source said.
Meanwhile, Gody is currently receiving treatment at Egbe Hospital, where medical personnel are battling to save his life. Reports indicate that his condition remains critical and he may be transferred to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, for further medical care.
Residents expressed concern over the increasing spate of kidnappings in Okun land, noting that attacks have become frequent in the area since May, when the paramount ruler of Okeloke was abducted.
The heavily armed gangs have reportedly continued to operate with impunity, killing several policemen and local vigilantes in recent months despite security efforts in the region.