Fresh Terror Surge: Timber Dealer, Worker Kidnapped As Fear Deepens Across Kogi Communities

Fresh Terror Surge: Timber Dealer, Worker Kidnapped As Fear Deepens Across Kogi Communities

18th November 2025

Panic has once again gripped communities in Kogi State as suspected terrorists abducted a timber businessman and one of his workers in the Okoloke area of Yagba West Local Government.

The victims were seized while working at a farm site when the armed men stormed the location without warning, firing multiple shots and forcing labourers to scatter for safety. One of the workers who escaped confirmed that the kidnappers overpowered the timber dealer and his staff before dragging them into the forest.

For months, border communities across Yagba East and Yagba West — particularly those close to Kwara State — have been under siege from rising cases of abductions, armed attacks, and violent crimes, leaving residents increasingly anxious.

The latest kidnapping also reignited attention on an unresolved case involving Prophetess Asuajo, a Council Secretary who has remained in captivity since October 25, despite her family paying a ₦10 million ransom. Only her husband was released.

A distraught family member, speaking through Okun Media Hub, accused local authorities of silence and sluggish intervention.

> “My mother-in-law is still in their custody. They collected ₦10 million and released only my father-in-law. The chairman has been silent. We don’t know what else to do. Please help us.”

The family described her ongoing detention as emotionally crushing, urging Governor Usman Ododo, security agencies, and local government authorities to intensify rescue operations before the situation deteriorates further.

Communities along the Egbe–Eruku axis have echoed the same fears, calling for decisive government action to stem the escalating wave of kidnappings and restore public confidence.

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