A Commissioner with the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission, Ahmed Mohammed,
popularly known as Barrister Ahmed Lawyer, his driver, and former SUBEB Chairman Mohammed Niworu, along with scores of motorists, have been abducted.
The incident occurred on Monday, September 29, along the Zugurma-Ibbi–New Bussa Road near Ibbi National Park in Mashegu Local Government Area.
The victims were returning from Borgu when the gunmen struck, blocking the highway ahead of a police checkpoint before ambushing travellers along the Ibbi-Bussa route. ,
A police tactical team engaged the attackers, successfully repelling them, but one officer sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
At least three Sharon buses loaded with passengers were seized and driven away by the bandits to unknown locations, according to a commercial driver who plies the route.
The vehicles were reportedly carrying traders from New Bussa market.
Confirming the incident, the Niger State Police Command spokesman, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said a police patrol vehicle was riddled with bullets during the confrontation.
“The Police Command has mobilised additional tactical teams in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to trail the kidnappers with a view to rescuing the abducted victims and apprehending the suspects.
”Authorities are continuing investigations while efforts are underway to secure the safe release of the abducted persons, ”SP Abiodun stated.
The police command has assured the public that everything is being done to rescue the victims and apprehend the kidnappers.
