Gunmen kidnap prominent Edo monarch

Some gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have reportedly abducted the traditional ruler of Udo-Eguare Kingdom in Igueben local government area of Edo state.

The monarch, HRM, Friday Ehizojie, the Onojie Of Udo Kingdom was reportedly taken hostage Sunday evening.

The chief was said to have been ambushed by unknown persons while riding as a passenger on a motorcycle along a lonely path leading to the community.

Reports revealed that suspected kidnappers shot dead the motorcycle rider and thereafter whisked the traditional ruler into the bush.

A source who craved for anonymity said four other persons were also abducted.

The Edo state police command Public Relations Officer (PRO), CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident.

Yamu said the Commissioner of Police, CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, has ordered the immediate deployment of the command’s tactical teams, including the Police Mobile Force to that area.

The police spokesman stated that the personnel deployment was geared to ensure the rescue of the victims and arrest of the culprits.

He added: “The Area Commander is personally on ground commanding the operation as directed by the Commissioner of Police.”