Bandits Kill Kogi Man After Collecting Over ₦1m Ransom, Motorcycle, Phone
By Queen Madaki | The Bureau News
Nigeria News Today: Suspected bandits have reportedly killed a man identified as Agba, a native of Egbe community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, despite collecting the full ransom demanded for the release of a kidnapped resident.
Local community platform, Egbe Mekun, quoting sources, confirmed that the kidnappers collected a Bajaj motorcycle, a brand-new Samsung mobile phone, and more than ₦1 million in cash before the tragic incident.
Agba was said to be one of two community members who volunteered to deliver the ransom to secure the freedom of Mabe, who was abducted by gunmen along the Egbe–Ogbe Road on December 16, 2025.
According to community sources, the bandits negotiated the ransom terms and instructed the community to send emissaries to deliver the demanded items and cash.
“The bandits collected everything they asked for — the motorcycle, phone, and over one million naira — yet still turned against the community,” a source told Egbe Mekun.
Despite full compliance with the ransom demands, the situation reportedly turned deadly. While one of the two ransom bearers was later released, Agba was allegedly killed while in the custody of the bandits after attempting to escape.
Mabe, the original victim of the abduction, was eventually released on December 27, 2025, several days after the ransom was paid.
The killing has deepened fear and outrage across Egbe and neighbouring communities, already grappling with recurring attacks and kidnappings.
The Bureau News recalls that terrorists recently attacked Idofin community in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing one person and injuring another.
The attack reportedly occurred between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on January 3, 2026. The deceased was identified as a Tiv man, while another indigene sustained serious injuries.
According to Egbe Mekun, the injured victim was later evacuated by military personnel and taken to an undisclosed hospital for medical treatment.
Residents have renewed calls on the Kogi State Government and security agencies to urgently strengthen security operations in Yagba West, Yagba East, and surrounding communities to prevent further loss of lives.
