The traditional ruler of Udo-Eguare, His Royal Highness Friday Ehizojie, Onojie, in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State, has been kidnapped,Daily Trust reports.
Reports indicate that he was abducted in a forested area between Ubiaja, near Rest House Junction, and Udo community. The attackers allegedly ambushed him, killing a motorcycle rider before taking the traditional ruler captive.
Sources further revealed that five other individuals were kidnapped alongside the ruler, though one reportedly managed to escape.
The spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident, stating that a report was received regarding the abduction of several persons, including the Onogie of Udo-Eguare and a 21-year-old man.
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“He was a passenger on a motorcycle along a secluded path leading to the community when they were ambushed by unknown gunmen. In the process, the motorcycle rider was shot dead before the Onogie was taken,” Yamu explained.
In response, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams, including the Police Mobile Force, to the area to secure the victims’ release and apprehend the perpetrators.
The Area Commander is reportedly on the ground, personally leading the operation as directed by the Commissioner of Police.
