A Nigerian lady has taken to social media to make a heartfelt appeal for urgent help after her cousin was reportedly kidnapped by armed bandits while traveling back to school in Kogi State. The shocking incident occurred along Obajana Road, a route notorious for attacks and insecurity, leaving many commuters anxious and worried about their safety.
Details of the Abduction
According to the lady, identified on X as @nana_hauwa, the victim was traveling on an 18-seater commercial bus with other students and passengers when armed bandits ambushed the vehicle. Eyewitnesses report that the bandits overpowered the driver and seized control of the bus before taking everyone on board hostage. The victim’s cousin was among those abducted, and the ordeal has left the family in deep distress and uncertainty.
Increasing Insecurity in Kogi State
This incident comes amid a growing wave of insecurity across major travel routes in Kogi State, with repeated reports of kidnappings, armed robberies, and attacks on commercial vehicles. Families of students, commuters, and traders have been urged to remain vigilant, but the frequency of these attacks has heightened fear among residents and travelers.
Ransom Demand and Family Distress
Following the abduction, the kidnappers reportedly contacted the victim’s mother and demanded a ransom of N100 million for his safe release. @nana_hauwa explained that the mother is a widow and has no means of raising such a huge amount, compounding the family’s anguish and helplessness. The communication with the kidnappers has been tense, with attempts at negotiation proving difficult, further escalating the family’s panic.
Plea for Public Support
In a moving appeal, the lady reached out to Nigerians, friends, and well-wishers to come to the family’s aid in any possible way—financially, through prayers, or by sharing the post to raise awareness about the dire situation. She emphasized that even small contributions could make a difference and potentially secure the safe return of her cousin. She wrote:
“Yesterday, along Obajana Road in Kogi State, an 18-seater bus heading to school was attacked, and everyone on board was kidnapped, including my husband’s cousin. The kidnappers have contacted his mother and are demanding ₦100 million for his release. We tried to negotiate with them, but they said we were not ready and ended the call. She is a widow and has absolutely no means to raise such an amount. We are devastated and racing against time. We appeal to kind-hearted Nigerians, friends, and anyone moved by this situation to support us in any way possible—financially, by sharing this post, or through prayers. No amount is too small. Your support could help bring him home alive.”
Account Details for Donations:
Name: Suleiman Rabi
Bank: First Bank
Account Number: 3063481731
The family also urged Nigerians to keep them in their prayers and kindly share the post to widen the reach of the appeal, hoping that collective support will bring their loved one back safely.
Social Media Reactions
The appeal has drawn massive attention on social media, with numerous netizens expressing concern, sharing messages of sympathy, and praying for the safe return of the abducted student and other victims. Many users urged the authorities to intensify efforts to combat banditry and ensure safer travel routes for commuters in Kogi State and neighboring areas. The incident has reignited debates about road safety and the need for enhanced security measures along high-risk travel corridors.
Videos and photos of the stranded bus, anxious passengers, and family members making urgent appeals have circulated widely online, further highlighting the seriousness of the situation and prompting Nigerians to respond in support of the affected family.
See below for visuals of the affected family and public reaction:
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