Gunmen kidnap government official in central Nigeria

JOS, Nigeria (The Informant247) – Gunmen kidnapped the chairperson of Kanke Local Council of Plateau state on Wednesday, after they invaded his home in Jos and opened fire to frighten locals in the neighbourhood, the police and eyewitness said.

“It is true that he was kidnapped. We are doing everything to rescue him,” Alfred Alabo, police spokesperson in state confirmed.

The police spokesperson said the tactical team are currently on the trail of the kidnappers, adding that an update will be provided on the rescue operation.

Like most states in the north-central geo-political zone, Plateau has been targeted by gunmen who raid communities, abduct and kill residents.

Nigeria’s security has worsened under President Muhammadu Buhari, a retired military general who became president in 2015.

A growing kidnap-for-ransom strategy has seen more victims held in captivity for months.

While most of the attacks which authorities blamed on armed bandits have happened in the northwest region, they are gradually seeping into central Nigeria.