Gunmen abduct 76-year-old retired Major in Kogi

Gunmen have abducted a 76-year-old retired army officer and former Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) chairman in Kabba-Bunu, Pastor Joe Ajayi, from his residence in Odo-Ape, Kogi State.

The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, when armed men stormed the area and fired shots for over an hour before seizing Ajayi and taking him to an unknown destination.

Residents told reporters that the retired Major, who also serves as a pastor, was in his home when the assailants broke in. The community has since been gripped by fear, with growing concern over Ajayi’s health condition, which is said to be fragile due to age.

The abduction has added to a string of recent security incidents in the area. It comes days after the Okun Development Association (ODA) raised alarm over rising insecurity in Okunland, citing a growing trend of kidnappings and attacks.

The ODA had recently decried the abduction of a first-class traditional ruler in Okoloke, Yagba West Local Government Area, urging both state and federal authorities to intervene urgently.