For the third time in less than a week, gunmen have struck again in Okoloke, an agrarian community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, abducting four residents and intensifying fears of worsening insecurity in the area.
The latest attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday when the assailants reportedly stormed the home of Ezekiel Durojaiye, a retiree and respected community leader in nearby Okunran, a short distance from Okoloke.
According to local sources, the gunmen subdued the neighbourhood and led Pa Durojaiye and three others into the bush at gunpoint.
Tensions have escalated in Yagba West following a string of violent incidents. Last Thursday, armed men abducted the traditional ruler of the area, Oba James Dada Ogunyamda.
Just three days later, three more individuals — two vigilante officers and a telecom worker — were kidnapped.
The kidnappers have since contacted the family of the 90-year-old monarch, initially demanding a ransom of ₦100 million, which was later reduced to ₦50 million.
The family has appealed for support from the government, civil society organizations, and individuals to help raise the funds.
Local authorities and the Kogi State Police Command said efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims and curb further violence.
