By Sabiu Abdullahi
Armed men have killed a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) officer, Mr. Ayo Olukotun, and kidnapped his daughter alongside several other residents during an attack on Odo-Ere, the headquarters of Yagba West Local Government Area in Kogi State.
The incident reportedly occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Monday when the assailants invaded the community and fired gunshots, which caused fear among residents and forced many to flee their homes.
Residents said the attackers later targeted the residence of the NSCDC officer. They allegedly shot Olukotun before taking his daughter and several other victims into a nearby forest.
A source within the community said the officer was taken to a hospital after the attack. However, medical personnel confirmed him dead upon arrival.
Reacting to the incident, Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area and Chairman of the Kogi State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Tosin Olokun, described the killing as a painful loss to the victim’s family, the Odo-Ere community and the entire local government area.
“We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. On behalf of the government and people of Yagba West, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. Ayo Olukotun, the people of Odo-Ere and all those affected by this attack,” he added.
The attack has heightened concerns over security in the area as residents await efforts by security agencies to secure the release of those abducted and bring those responsible to justice.
