Gunmen have launched two separate attacks on Buge village in Kogi State’s Lokoja Local Government Area, killing one person, injuring two others, and abducting nine residents.
The attackers first struck on April 25, 2025, and returned four days later on April 28, unleashing terror on the small community under Budan.
According to community sources, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of N150 million.
The attacks followed a threat by the kidnappers to invade the village unless a Fulani man, who was caught disguising himself in women’s clothing, was freed.
The man was suspected of wearing a dress belonging to a kidnapped girl from the village.
The attacks have left the villagers in constant fear, with many abandoning their homes to survive. Several children trying to flee reportedly drowned while crossing a nearby river.
The neighbouring villages are also on high alert, with some residents fleeing their homes in fear of being the next target.
The attackers operate boldly in daylight, using motorcycles and guns, and have informed neighbouring villages that they are their next targets.
The police command in Kogi State was unreachable for comment at the time of filing the report.
