Kogi Pastor Regains Freedom as Youths Foil Kidnap Attempt – The Bureau News | Nigeria News Today
By Queen Madaki
The Bureau News reports that a pastor of the United Evangelical Church (UEC), Julius Ajeka, who was abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ojuwo-Igah, Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, has regained his freedom after youths in the community swiftly mobilised and pursued the attackers.
The gunmen reportedly broke into the cleric’s residence around 2:00 a.m. on Friday, March 6, and whisked him away to an unknown destination.
Nigeria News Today: Youths Chase Kidnappers, Pastor Freed
Residents quickly raised the alarm and organised a pursuit using local weapons. Faced with the determined resistance from the community youths, the kidnappers reportedly abandoned the pastor and fled into nearby bushes.
Ajeka sustained injuries during the incident but has since been reunited with his family and is currently receiving treatment at a local clinic.
Security Operation Rescues 12 Kidnap Victims
In a related development, 12 kidnapped victims have been rescued along the Kogi–Enugu boundary following a joint operation involving vigilante groups and troops from Enugu State.
An eyewitness described the rescue as a moment of relief for communities affected by repeated kidnappings.
“It is a day of joy as we welcome back victims of kidnappers from the boundary of Akpanya district and Igbo Eze North. They were rescued by soldiers from Enugu State,” the source said.
The rescued victims include five persons abducted from Ubele Ward and seven others from the Etteh community.
Suspects Arrested as Kidnap Camp Destroyed
During the operation, security operatives arrested seven suspects while several others reportedly escaped.
Authorities also destroyed a camp believed to have been used by the kidnappers as a hideout.
Residents have appealed to the Kogi State Government and security agencies to intensify surveillance around border communities where criminal gangs are believed to operate.
Community leaders warned that settlements along the Kogi–Enugu boundary remain vulnerable to repeated attacks if decisive action is not taken to dismantle criminal camps.
Neighbourhood Watch Calls for Stronger Support
Meanwhile, the Kogi East Neighbourhood Watch (KENW) said local security teams are still working to rescue victims from other recent kidnapping incidents in Ogbakoedo and Egabada communities.
The group called on government authorities to provide stronger logistical and operational support to local security outfits in order to effectively tackle the growing kidnapping menace.
The Bureau News will continue to monitor developments and provide updates under Nigeria News Today.
