Grief in Kogi Community as Three Kinsmen Die After Bandits Free Them

A pall of grief has descended on Ayetoro- Kiri, a community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, following the death of three kinsmen shortly after their release from the captivity of bandits.It was also revealed that four other kinsmen who gained freedom from the bandits are equally in critical condition and have been hospitalised.The community added that a huge amount of money was paid to bandits as ransom for the release of the victims.

The community’s spokesman, David Amupitan, also revealed that thirty (30) indigenes were still in the custody of the bandits and their fate unknown as of yesterday (Saturday).“The people of Ayetoro-Kiri community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State are once again plunged into grief and despair following persistent bandit attacks, official negligence, and worsening insecurity in Bunuland.

“Recently, scores of residents were abducted by bandits. After a painful ransom payment raised through communal contributions, only seven victims were released. Sadly, three of them were already dead on arrival, while four others are currently battling for their lives in critical condition at medical facilities. About thirty innocent citizens remain in captivity, their fate uncertain.”

The community enjoined both the state and federal governments to put in more efforts in ensuring the safety of lives and property in the Local Government Area.“We hereby appeal, urgently, to the Federal Government of Nigeria, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to intervene decisively in Ayetoro-Kiri and the entire Bunu district.

Immediate action must be taken to rescue those still in captivity, restore security, and hold accountable all officials who enable or ignore this humanitarian tragedy. The lives of Bunu people matter. Enough is sincerely enough, “The spokesman for the state police command, CSP William Aya, could not be reached for comment as at press time.