Suspected kidnappers have abducted several mourners accompanying the remains of a deceased Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officer to Benue State for burial, demanding a ransom of N50 million.
The incident occurred along the Ososo-Ajaokuta axis of Kogi State when the gunmen reportedly attacked a funeral convoy conveying the body of late FRSC Deputy Corps Commander, DCC Augustine O. Ikwue, popularly known as “Etume Zero.”
According to citizen journalist and activist, Meddy Olotu, the attackers intercepted the convoy, took the mourners and the corpse into the bush before later abandoning the remains of the deceased around Ejule area of Kogi State.
Olotu disclosed that the kidnappers are still holding the mourners and have demanded N50 million for their release.
Expressing sadness over the development, the activist described the incident as a disturbing sign of the worsening security situation in the country.
“What kind of country are we living in? Even the dead cannot rest in peace,” he said.
He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted victims and ensure that those behind the attack are arrested and prosecuted.
The late DCC Augustine O. Ikwue was scheduled to be buried in Aiode, Upu community, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, on Friday before the funeral procession was disrupted by the attack.
Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.