Nigerian traditional ruler shot dead, his wife kidnapped

Armed assailants have shot and killed Segun Aremu, a retired army general and revered traditional ruler holding the esteemed title of Olukoro of Koro in the southwestern region of Nigeria.

The assailants forcefully entered the palace on the night of Thursday, February 2nd, 2024. They abducted his wife and another individual, leaving authorities grappling with the unclear identities and motives of the gunmen, the BBC has reported.

Authorities are currently investigating whether a ransom is being demanded for the release of the abducted individuals. The tragic occurrence adds to the escalating security challenges in the region, prompting calls for urgent intervention.

Approximately 50 civil society groups, campaigning for decisive action, have urged President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency. They highlight a disturbing surge in abductions, surpassing 1,800 cases since Tinubu assumed office in May. The demand for a state of emergency underscores the pressing need for a comprehensive response to address the rising insecurity.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara state expressed outrage over the killing of Olukoro of Koro, condemning the act as “reckless, shocking, and abominable.” He assured the public of the authorities’ commitment to apprehending the perpetrators through an ongoing police-led manhunt.

The incident is part of a series of recent abductions in the region. Earlier in the week, kidnappers seized five schoolchildren and four teachers in Ekiti State, demanding a ransom of 100 million naira ($110,000; £87,500) for their safe release. Additionally, a senior government official was kidnapped in the Bwari suburb of Abuja, reflecting the concerning trend of criminal activities spreading to urban areas.

The grim reality of kidnapping for ransom has intensified in Nigeria, with armed gangs targeting various demographics, including road travellers, students, and residents in both rural and urban settings. The urgency to address this growing threat has reached a critical point, necessitating swift and comprehensive measures to safeguard the lives and security of the nation’s citizens.

Mimi Mefo Info