By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
A farmer, Chief Samuel Ajayi Bello, has been abducted by suspected kidnappers while working on his farm in Ponyan, Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP William Aya, confirmed the incident to journalists in Lokoja on Monday. He said the abduction occurred around 10 a.m. at Ponyan Agricultural Foundation, located along the Ponyan-Irele Road.
According to him, the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, has deployed tactical teams to the area to ensure the victim’s safe return and to track down the kidnappers.
Aya also revealed that a local hunter sustained gunshot wounds during a confrontation with the abductors and is currently receiving treatment in hospital. Medical reports indicate that the hunter is responding well.
The National President of the Ponyan Development Association, Hon. Banjo Fabola, also confirmed the abduction. He said the assailants fired sporadically before seizing Chief Bello and dragging him into the bush.
Fabola noted that security forces, local hunters, and vigilantes quickly mobilised and launched a search operation in nearby forests. He appealed for broader support to help secure the farmer’s release.
“There was an exchange of gunfire during the pursuit, and unfortunately, one of our hunters was injured. We need all the help we can get to bring Chief Ajayi home safely,” Fabola said.
The incident adds to growing concerns over rural insecurity in Kogi State.