Gunmen Abduct NISIEC Commissioner, Ex-NSUBEB Chairman In Niger State

Minna, Niger State- Armed men have abducted a serving commissioner of the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NISIEC), Ahmed Mohammed, alongside his driver and a former Chairman of the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB), Alhaji Mohammed Bawa Niworu.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday near the Ibbi National Park along the Zugurma-Ibbi to New Bussa road in Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State.

It was gathered that the victims were returning from Borgu when their vehicle was ambushed.

However, a passerby later discovered the car abandoned by the roadside with their mobile phones left inside.

Reports indicated that the assailants mounted a roadblock ahead of a police checkpoint before attacking.

Meanwhile, a tactical police team responded to the distress call and engaged the gunmen in a shootout, repelling the attackers.

During the exchange, a police operative sustained a gunshot injury and was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

A patrol vehicle was also riddled with bullets.

Confirming the incident, the Niger State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the assailants abducted several passengers from three commercial vehicles along the Ibbi-Bussa road.

“The hoodlums blocked the highway and whisked away some passengers. Our tactical team responded, and although a patrol vehicle was damaged by gunfire, our men were able to repel the attack.”

Abiodun stated that  state police command has mobilised more tactical teams with other security agencies, and vigilante members trailing the suspected kidnappers with a view to rescuing the abducted victims and possible arrest of the fleeing hoodlums.