Gunmen Kidnap Islamic Cleric in Kogi

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Suspected  gunmen have  abducted the Chief Imman of Iyara Sheikh Quasim Musa at his residence in Iyara, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

This development, it was gathered  has sent jitters to the spines of the residents of the town since Monday night as they can no longer sleep with their two eyes closed.

THISDAY learnt  that the Islamic cleric was Kidnapped on Monday night outside his house at Ilukpa area of Iyara, the  headquarters of Ijumu Local  Government Area.

Eye witness account explained that  the gunmen who came in a commando style started shooting sporadically before taking their victim to an unknown destination.

A family source, who spoke to journalists on  condition of anonymity, said they are yet to get any information from the Kidnappers.

The family source said: “Dear compatriot sons and daughters of Iyara land, it is sad to announce to you all that our Community had its own share of the current insecurity bedeviling of nation on Monday 25th, March 2024.

“Gunmen suspected to be herdsmen stormed the House of the Chief Imam of Iyara land, Sheikh Quasim Musa and kidnapped him after shooting sporadically.

The religious leader was abducted at about 2200hrs after he came back from Mosque and slept outside his house at Ilukpa, Iyara headquarters of Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

“This dastardly act is cowardice and unfortunate, happening to a Religious Leader in this Holy month of Ramadan. We use this medium to call on relevant authorities to ensure that he is released.

“You’re hereby requested to commence fervent prayers as for efforts being made to rescue him from Kidnappers den to yield positive result in no distant time.Once again , you are all requested to pray for his safe return”.

Meanwhile ,the Kogi State Police Command  confirmed the kidnap of  the Chief Imam of Iyara , Sheikh Quasim Musa by the gunmen.

While confirming the incident yesterday, the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer SP William Ovye Aya  said:” The Commissioner of Police in Kogi State has deployed tactical team, PMF, quick response unit, Divisional Police, alongside local vigilantes  and other security agencies to ensure that the Man is rescued unhurt.”