Fresh attack mirrors a disturbing rise in kidnappings across the state
By Rextun City Updates Staff Writer
KOGI STATE, NIGERIA
Friday, August 8, 2025, turned tragic for commuters along the Itobe–Anyagba Expressway when nine passengers were kidnapped in a violent highway ambush near Ogbabo Junction.
At about 4:20 p.m., a Peace Mass Transit bus was intercepted by heavily armed gunmen who fired shots into the air, forcing the driver to halt. In the ensuing chaos, the driver, Sunday Okechi, and six passengers managed to escape into nearby bushes. The remaining nine passengers were seized and marched into the dense surrounding forest.
A Calculated Operation
Eyewitnesses describe the attack as highly coordinated, with the assailants positioning themselves to block all escape routes. The bus, registration number ENZ-55 XS, was later recovered by security forces alongside a blue Toyota Carina ‘E’ believed to be linked to the attackers.
The location’s proximity to a military checkpoint has raised concerns about the attackers’ reconnaissance abilities and the level of security along the route.
Security Forces Respond
Upon receiving distress calls, a combined team of police officers, members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, and local hunters launched a search-and-rescue mission. Authorities have kept operational details under wraps, but sources confirm that forest routes believed to be used by the kidnappers are under surveillance.
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Families in Agony
Relatives of the abducted victims remain in shock and distress. “Every passing hour feels like a year,” said one man whose sister was taken. There has been no official statement about ransom demands, but in similar past incidents in Kogi, contact from abductors often came within 48 hours.
Kidnapping Trend in Kogi
Security experts warn that Kogi’s strategic location between northern and southern Nigeria, combined with its vast forests, has made it a hotspot for kidnappers. Highways such as the Itobe–Anyagba route have seen repeated attacks over the last two years.
Few of The Past Major Kidnapping Incidents in Kogi State
April 2024 — 14 Passengers Seized: Gunmen kidnapped 14 travelers along the Lokoja–Okene road. Most were released after alleged ransom payments.
September 2023 — Polytechnic Students Abducted: Five students from Kogi State Polytechnic were taken while returning from an event, sparking protests.
February 2023 — Itobe Bridge Ambush: Armed men kidnapped at least 12 people in a coordinated attack near the bridge.
July 2022 — Chief Imam and Family Kidnapped: A religious leader and his family were abducted from their home in Ajaokuta LGA and freed after community negotiations.
Analysts Insights:
- Strategic Geography. The Transit routes make Kogi attractive to criminal gangs.
- Forest Cover that Offers ideal hideouts for abductors.
- Limited Patrol Resources which Leaves stretches of highway exposed.
The Road Ahead
As of this report, the nine abducted passengers remain in captivity. The rescue mission is ongoing, with residents urged to report suspicious activities to authorities.
Rextun City Updates will continue to follow the story and provide verified developments as events unfold.
