Kogi Monarch Abducted by Gunmen in Omala
Gunmen have kidnapped His Royal Highness David Wada, the District Head of Bagaji Odo and a second-class traditional ruler in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The monarch was abducted around 5 p.m. while returning from a traditional council meeting in Abejukolo, headquarters of Omala LGA. He was waylaid at Ojuwo Ugweche, a notorious kidnapping spot, and whisked into the bush at gunpoint.
Eyewitnesses said the monarch, who was travelling on a motorcycle, ran into the ambush, while his rider narrowly escaped. “They dragged him into the bush. The rider fled by the whiskers,” a resident disclosed.
Locals expressed shock that no security operatives were at the axis that is usually manned by vigilantes and soldiers. Despite government’s earlier deployment of security personnel to Omala following violent attacks and the burning of communities by bandits, residents lament that kidnappings and killings have continued unchecked, with armed herders occupying large portions of the forests.
Confirming the incident, HRH Boniface Musa, the paramount ruler of Omala, said:
“Yes, it is true. The District Head of Bagaji Odo, HRH David Wada, has been kidnapped. I appeal to security agencies to ensure his safe rescue without delay.”
Police spokesperson, SP Williams Aya, also confirmed the abduction, adding that operatives, hunters and vigilantes have launched a manhunt to rescue the monarch.
As of the time of this report, the kidnappers have yet to contact the victim’s family.
