A renewed wave of violence has shaken Kogi State after suspected bandits killed a community member who served as a ransom negotiator, despite full compliance with the abductors’ demands.
The victim, identified as Agba, was from Egbe community in Yagba West Local Government Area and had volunteered to help secure the release of a kidnapped resident.
According to local accounts, Agba was among two emissaries sent to deliver ransom items for Mabe, who was abducted along the Egbe–Ogbe Road on December 16, 2025.
Residents said the kidnappers carefully negotiated terms, listing specific items required before agreeing to free their captive.
The items reportedly included a Bajaj motorcycle, a new Samsung mobile phone, and cash exceeding ₦1 million, all of which were delivered as instructed.
However, the operation took a deadly turn. While one of the couriers was later freed, Agba was allegedly killed while in captivity.
Community sources claimed the bandits accused Agba of attempting to flee, a move that allegedly led to his execution.
“This is what frightens us the most,” a resident said. “Even when communities cooperate, there is no guarantee of safety or mercy.”
Mabe, the original kidnapping victim, was eventually released on December 27, 2025, days after the ransom exchange had been concluded.
Nevertheless, Agba’s killing has intensified anger and fear across Egbe and surrounding towns, where residents say attacks have become more frequent and more brutal.
“The message this sends is terrifying,” another community leader said. “People are risking their lives to save others and still paying the ultimate price.”
Meanwhile, insecurity worsened further in Yagba East Local Government Area, where armed attackers struck Idofin community on January 3, 2026.
During the assault, one resident, identified as a Tiv indigene, was killed, while another person sustained serious injuries.
Local sources said soldiers later evacuated the wounded victim to an undisclosed medical facility for urgent treatment.
Residents across both local governments are now urging security agencies to intensify patrols and dismantle criminal hideouts, warning that continued inaction could deepen the humanitarian crisis in the area.