Shock in Kogi: Three Kidnap Victims Dead, Dozens Still Missing Amid Bandit Attacks

A community in Ayetoro‑Kiri, Kabba‑Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State is in mourning following the death of three residents who were abducted by suspected bandits. Despite ransom payments made by relatives and neighbours, the victims were released only to arrive already dead.

Local residents report that of the seven people freed by the captors, three were already deceased on arrival and four others remain critically ill, while about 30 other villagers are still being held in captivity, with their fate unknown.

The tragedy has fueled anger and despair across the community, with locals accusing security forces and government officials of failing to protect lives amid mounting bandit attacks. Community leaders lament that authorities have been slow to act against kidnappings, even as these criminal incidents continue to terrorise the area.

Villagers also alleged that when peaceful protests demanding better security and the rescue of abducted relatives were staged, some demonstrators were met with tear gas and arrests by local authorities, compounding their frustration and sense of abandonment.

The situation in Kogi reflects a broader insecurity trend, where banditry, kidnappings, and village abandonments have become increasingly common, prompting community outrage and calls for decisive intervention by the federal and state governments.