Gunmen kidnap nine from former FRSC officer’s funeral convoy, demand N450m

A funeral convoy conveying the remains of a former Deputy Corps Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Augustine Ikwue, from Osogbo, Osun State, to his hometown in Otukpo, Benue State, was attacked by suspected gunmen in Kogi State, resulting in the abduction of nine mourners.

The attack occurred on July 9, 2026, along the Ochadamu–Ejule Road, a route that has witnessed several security incidents in recent years.

According to reports, the armed assailants intercepted the convoy, opened an attack on the mourners and whisked away nine people, including two personnel of the Federal Road Safety Corps who were accompanying the funeral procession.

In a disturbing twist, the kidnappers reportedly abandoned the remains of the late FRSC officer near the Ejule community after stopping the convoy. Security personnel later recovered the body and ensured it was returned to the bereaved family, allowing funeral arrangements to continue.

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Sources familiar with the incident said the abductors have since established contact with the victims’ families and are demanding a ransom of N450 million for the release of those held captive.

Security agencies have launched a coordinated rescue operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, the military, local hunters and vigilante groups to track down the kidnappers and secure the victims’ freedom.

As of the latest reports, the abducted mourners remain in captivity, while security operatives continue search-and-rescue efforts in the affected area and surrounding forests.

Reacting to the incident, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack, describing it as a tragic and unacceptable act of criminality.

The governor directed security agencies to intensify ongoing operations to ensure the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims and bring those responsible to justice.

The attack has renewed concerns over the growing threat of kidnapping and violent crime along major highways linking several states, with motorists and travellers increasingly becoming targets of armed criminal groups.

Residents and road users have continued to call for enhanced security patrols and stronger surveillance along vulnerable road corridors to curb the rising wave of abductions and improve public safety.