In a shocking turn of events, the traditional ruler of Udo-Eguare, His Royal Highness Friday Ehizojie, the Onojie of Udo, was kidnapped on Monday in Edo State. The incident occurred in a remote forest area between Ubiaja, near the Rest House Junction, and the Udo community, where the royal figure was ambushed by armed gunmen.
According to sources, the gunmen shot dead an Okada rider before abducting the Onojie, while five other individuals were also taken. One of the captives reportedly managed to escape from the kidnappers’ hold. The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident, with spokesperson Moses Yamu providing details of the tragic event. Yamu explained that the victims, including the Onojie and a 21-year-old man, were ambushed while traveling along a secluded path, where the Okada rider was fatally shot before the abduction took place.
In response to the disturbing incident, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, swiftly ordered the deployment of tactical teams, including the Police Mobile Force, to the area to facilitate the rescue of the victims and apprehend the perpetrators. Yamu confirmed that the Area Commander is on the ground, personally overseeing the operation as directed by the Commissioner of Police.
The abduction of a traditional ruler in broad daylight has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region. Authorities are intensifying efforts to bring the culprits to justice and ensure the safe return of the kidnapped victims.
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