In a tragic incident that underscores the deepening security challenges in the country, Dr. Joseph Haruna Kigbu, a former member of the House of Representatives for Lafia/Obi Federal Constituency, was abducted on Monday by suspected bandits. The attack occurred around 6:00 p.m. along the route between Nunku in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State and Gwantu in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The attackers reportedly intercepted Dr. Kigbu’s vehicle and, in the process, shot and killed his police escort, who resisted their attempt to take the lawmaker. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the bandits firing indiscriminately, creating widespread panic among travelers and motorists in the area.
Residents of the nearby communities, who have grown accustomed to recurring criminal activities in the region, confirmed the abduction. The stretch of road between Nunku and Gwantu has been notorious for incidents of banditry, making it a hotspot for such violent crimes.
This latest incident has reignited calls from local inhabitants for an increased security presence to curb the menace of banditry and ensure the safety of citizens. Many have expressed frustration over the inability of security agencies to secure the area, urging the government to prioritize decisive action.
The abduction of Dr. Kigbu and the killing of his police escort are part of a broader pattern of insecurity that has plagued many parts of Nigeria, posing a significant challenge to both state and federal authorities.
