INEC staff kidnapped in Kogi State
Gunmen have abducted three officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Kogi State while they were on duty ahead of an electoral exercise. The incident reportedly occurred in Lokoja, the state capital, as the officials were said to be finalizing logistical arrangements for an upcoming by-election.
According to security sources, the INEC staff were traveling in an official vehicle when the armed men intercepted them along a rural route. The gunmen, who were heavily armed, forced the victims into their vehicle and drove them to an undisclosed location. The motive for the abduction remains unclear, but authorities suspect it could be politically motivated given the sensitive timing of the electoral process in the state.
INEC’s Public Relations Officer in Kogi confirmed the abduction, describing it as a setback to the commission’s preparation efforts. He assured that security agencies had been informed and were working to rescue the kidnapped officials safely. The police spokesperson in the state also stated that operatives had launched a manhunt to track down the abductors, vowing that justice would be served.
Residents in the area have expressed fear over the rising cases of insecurity in the state, particularly targeting election workers. They called on the government and security forces to ensure the safe release of the abducted INEC officials and to provide stronger protection for others involved in the electoral process.
The abduction highlights the growing security concerns surrounding election-related activities in parts of Nigeria, as officials continue to face threats and attacks from criminal groups during election seasons.
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