Kidnappers abduct traditional ruler in Edo, kill Okada rider

Suspected kidnappers on Sunday abducted the Onogie of Udo-Eguare, a traditional ruler in the Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State.

The incident occurred in Edo Central, plunging the community into distress.

According to a statement released by the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, the traditional ruler was ambushed while traveling on a motorcycle.

Tragically, the motorcyclist, popularly known as an Okada rider, was killed during the attack.

Yamu further revealed that other individuals, whose exact number remains unknown, were also abducted in the attack.

The statement read, “The command has received a report of the unfortunate kidnap of some persons, including the Onogie of Udo-Eguare, a 21-year-old man, late on Sunday night.

“He was riding as a passenger on a motorcycle along a lonely path leading to his community where they were ambushed by unknown persons. In the process, the Okada rider was shot dead before the Onogie was abducted.

“Upon receipt of this report, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Betty Otimenyin, ordered the immediate deployment of the command’s tactical teams including the Police Mobile Force to that area to ensure the rescue of the victims and arrest of the culprits.

“The Area Commander is personally on ground commanding the operation as directed by the Commissioner of Police.”