Former Nigerian Lawmaker Abducted, Police Escort Killed in Nasarawa

Former Nigerian Lawmaker Abducted, Police Escort Killed in Nasarawa

A daring daylight abduction has shaken Nigeria's political landscape, as Dr. Joseph Haruna Kigbu, a former member of the House of Representatives, was kidnapped by suspected bandits in Nasarawa State. The incident occurred on Monday around 6 pm, between Nunku in Akwanga Local Government Area and Gwantu in the Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Eyewitnesses describe a chaotic scene, with the assailants firing sporadically, causing widespread panic among motorists in the area. Tragically, the police escort assigned to Dr. Kigbu was fatally shot during a gun battle with the abductors, who attempted to resist the kidnapping .

Local villagers confirmed the incident, noting that the location has long been a hotspot for criminal activities. Despite efforts to reach the Nasarawa State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Ramhan Nansel, for comments, he remained unreachable.

Dr. Kigbu's impressive background makes his abduction all the more alarming. A Fellow of the West African College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, he represented Lafia/Obi federal constituency, Nasarawa State, at the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2015. Initially a member of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), he later switched to the People's Democratic Party (PDP) .

With over 34 years of experience as a medical doctor and 20 years as a Specialist Obstetrician and Gynecologist in Nigeria and the West African Sub-region, Dr. Kigbu's abduction raises concerns about the safety of prominent figures in the country.

The incident highlights Nigeria's ongoing struggle with insecurity, particularly in the northern regions. Authorities must swiftly investigate and respond to this brazen attack, ensuring the safe return of Dr. Kigbu and addressing the growing concerns of citizens.

As the investigation unfolds, many questions remain unanswered. What motivated the abduction? Will Dr. Kigbu's high-profile status influence the response? The coming days will be crucial in determining the outcome of this disturbing event.