Gunmen launched a brazen attack on the community of Odo-Ape in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, abducting nine individuals, including a newly elected councilor, Hon. Alaba Ope, representing Odo-Ape ward in the Kabba-Bunu Legislative Council.

The kidnapping occurred just a week after three persons, including an 8-year-old boy, were abducted from the same community. The gunmen struck at approximately 1 a.m. on Wednesday, shooting sporadically before selecting their victims.

A community source revealed that seven of the kidnapped victims were residents, comprising five Gwaris and two Bassa, while only the councilor was a native of the community. An additional person, Silas, was kidnapped from Agbadu, a neighboring community.

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The repeated incidents have instilled fear among the residents, who are now calling on security agencies and the state government to protect their lives and properties, and secure the release of the kidnapped individuals.

This incident is part of a disturbing trend in the local government, where kidnapping cases have been on the rise. Recently, two brothers were kidnapped in Aluju, Kakun, and three others, including an 8-year-old boy, were abducted in Odo-Ape community last week, with all still held captive.

Although the Kogi Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Anya, has yet to comment, a top government security personnel confirmed the incident and assured that the state security apparatus is actively addressing the situation, urging citizens to carry on with their daily activities without undue fear.