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One Year After, Family Cries For Justice Over Slain NSCDC Officer In FCT
A year after their son was murdered in cold blood; the family of Engr. Yakubu Attah is yet to get justice as the scar of the sudden demise of their son remains indelible in their hearts.
CSC Aku Attah ,an officer of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), was shot by suspected kidnappers in October 2019 on his way from work along Pegi Road, a resettlement area in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
Attah , until his death,served at the Headquarters of the NSCDC along the Airport road. He was on his way to his residence at Pegi after closing from work on that fateful day when gunmen dressed in military camouflage opened fire on his vehicle, and also abducted 10 persons including a 12-year-old boy who was returning from school in the area.
The 44- year-old who was the first son and second child of his parents later died barely a forthnight after the attack, at the Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital where he was receiving treatment.
He is survived by children, siblings and parents.He was surrounded by loved ones at the hospital until he gave his last breath, an episode that has remained like a scar that can never be removed from their memories.
Although, the abducted residents of Pegi were reportedly released upon the payment of ransom, the killers of the NSCDC officer are yet to be brought to book one year after.
However, the family of Attah has urged the Inspector General of Police and the FCT Commissioner of Police to ensure that the killers of their son are fished out and made to face the wrath of law.
They also called on the Federal Government, especially the Hon. Minister of Interior Rauf Aregbesola, who supervises the NSCDC, to ensure that their son who died in active service to fatherland is immortalized.
Speaking to newsmen in Abuja, Mrs Rhoda Dandaura, elder sister to the slain officer, shared the ordeal her late brother experienced in his last days on earth and the devastating impact his demise has left on the entire Attah’s family.
She recounted how the late officer was moved from one hospital to another because of lack of bed spaces and some other reasons while he was soaked in his blood.
She said: “October 2019 will forever remain a dark month for Aku’s loved ones. He had spent his weekend visiting his parents in Minna and travelled back to Abuja before proceeding to his office at NSCDC Headquarters on Airport Road.
“That fateful morning in Minna, his vehicle that was in perfect condition refused to start, and after it was checked by a mechanic, he proceeded on his journey to Abuja, not knowing that would be his last visit to his family.
“I remember it was a rainy day, and I called him around 6:30 pm to know how his day went and how our parents were faring.
“I told him twice to pass the night at our younger sister’s house along the Airport road, since it was raining and a bit late, considering the nature of the Pegi-Kuje road, but he chose to go home so that he could have a change of uniform and resume work early the following morning.
She shared how the officer, after he was shot, was taken from the National Hospital to the Federal Medical Centre in Jabi, and then finally to Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital where he died after staying over one week at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU.
According to her, “Aku showed signs of improvement and he even narrated how the incident happened. He fought death and struggled to live, but he could not make it.
“I strongly believe that if our healthcare facilities are good and one does not have to be moved from one hospital to another even in emergency situations, my brother would have survived,” she added.
She expressed concerns that although the relevant Government Authorities made promises on measures to ameliorate the impact the late officer’s demise brought on his family, such promises were yet to be fulfilled.
She however commended the Comptroller General of the NSCDC, Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu for his kind gestures towards the family of the slain officer in his capacity as his boss.
Also, the father of the slain officer, EngrYakubu Attah expressed displeasure that the killers of his son were yet to be apprehended and prosecuted despite repeated calls by the family.
He lamented that if a security officer saddled with the onerous task of protecting lives and properties could be killed without recourse then the society was no longer safe.
“The reports of kidnapping and killings across the country, and even in the FCT, are a clear indication that insecurity still remains a major threat to Nigerians.
“The Authorities should take steps to ensure that such incidents are reduced to the barest minimum, and for justice to be done.
“We are yet to see justice done, because as far as we are concerned we are not aware that the killers of my son have been arrested and prosecuted.
“My late son was like an electric circuit that connected all of us together and we miss him so much,” he said.
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Insecurity: Ododo Briefs President Tinubu On Proactive Measures Put In Place
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi state on Monday, paid a working visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the State House, Abuja, briefing him on proactive measures put in place to tackle insecurity and the overall development of the state.
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Kogi State’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo in a statement made available to journalists in Lokoja, indicates that Governor Ododo during the visit, highlighted the proactive measures being taken by the state government in collaboration with security agencies to safeguard lives and property.
According to the commissioner, Governor Ododo expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for his consistent and unwavering support, particularly in bolstering security operations across Kogi State.
He noted that the federal backing has significantly enhanced the capacity of security forces to respond swiftly and effectively to threats.
Governor Ododo also conveyed the profound gratitude of the Government and the good people of Kogi State to the President for the landmark approval of the Ajaokuta Economic City, also known as the Kogi–Hunan Free Trade Zone.
He described the project as a historic and transformative initiative that will reposition Kogi as a major industrial and investment hub, create massive employment opportunities, and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
In his response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, commended Governor Ododo for his effective leadership and strong collaboration with federal security agencies in tackling security challenges in the state. The President assured him of the Federal Government’s continued support in both security and development efforts.
The high-level meeting also featured fruitful discussions focused on advancing infrastructural development, expanding economic opportunities, and improving the overall well-being of the people of Kogi State.
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Kogi State Intercept Child Trafficking
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has successful intercepted a group of underaged children trafficked into the State, in what is suspected to be a covert recruitment attempt for banditry training.
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The State’s Commissioner of Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo in a statement, disclosed that at about 1500hrs on December 5, 2025, eagle-eyed security operatives of the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Yagba Area Command in collaboration with other security agencies in Isanlu, acting on credible intelligence from community hunters, intercepted a truck conveying 21 children aged between 6 and 17 years into Kogi State.
According to the statement “Initial investigations revealed that the children had been moved from different northern states under suspicious circumstances by adults who could not provide legitimate justification for their movement.
“Several suspects linked to the trafficking operation have been arrested, including individuals who claimed they were transporting the children to establish an informal “Islamic school” within Yagba East.
” Further arrests were made as security operatives intensified surveillance within the area, uncovering additional persons allegedly connected to the movement of the minors. Some of the suspects were also found with items raising significant security concerns.
“The rescued children have since been transferred to the State Command of the NSCDC in Lokoja for detailed investigation and proper profiling of all persons involved.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Executive Governor of Kogi State, has directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to take full custody of the underaged victims, ensure their wellbeing, and provide the necessary psychosocial support pending the conclusion of investigations.
“Upon completion of profiling and verification, the children will be handed over to their respective State Governments for further investigation and eventual reintegration with their families. Meanwhile, all individuals found culpable in this trafficking operation will be prosecuted in line with Kogi State’s Child Trafficking and Child Rights Protection Laws.
“The Kogi State Government reiterates its uncompromising stance against child trafficking, criminal infiltration, and any form of security threat. The administration of Governor Ododo will continue to work closely with security agencies and local communities to safeguard every part of the State.
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President Tinubu Extols Late Prince Abubakar Audu’s Legacies
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described late Prince Abubakar Audu as a “friend, ally, and trailblazer of democracy declaring that his foot-print in Kogi state as former Governor remains the best since the creation of the state.
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The President gave the commendation while speaking at the 10th Memorial Anniversary and Book Presentation organised by the state government in collaboration with the immediate family in honour of the late political ICON
Tinubu who was represented by the Hon. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, lauded late Prince Audu’s commitment to democratic ideals and the development of Kogi State.
President Tinubu noted that Prince Audu’s leadership was marked by courage, vision, and dedication to the prosperity and security of his people, calling his legacy “a living template for good governance” that continues to inspire leaders across the nation.
The event drew political leaders, statesmen, and dignitaries from across Nigeria, including the representation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to commemorate a decade since the passing of the iconic leader whose vision and leadership continue to influence the political and developmental trajectory of Kogi State.
Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, son of the late statesman, reaffirmed his commitment to advancing his father’s legacy.
He described the memorial as a solemn reminder of the enduring influence Prince Audu holds in the hearts of the people and the continued relevance of his contributions to the growth of Kogi State.
The Minister recalled his father’s visionary leadership, foundational reforms, and passion for public service, noting that successive administrations still draw from the structures and institutions he established.
Prince Shuaibu Audu highlighted his ongoing efforts to revitalize the Ajaokuta Steel Company and strengthen Nigeria’s steel sector as a continuation of his father’s dream for industrial and economic development in Kogi State.
He thanked all partners and stakeholders supporting these initiatives, reiterating that the collective aspiration for a stronger Kogi State and a more prosperous Nigeria is rooted in his father’s enduring vision.
The Minister also expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his continuous support to the Audu family.
He also thanked the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, who attended the event. He described Senator Akume as a friend and colleague of his late father from the class of 1999 governors, acknowledging his role in supporting and honouring Prince Audu’s memory.
He further commended the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and members of the State Executive Council for hosting the memorial as a state event, noting that it reflects the enduring respect Kogi State holds for Prince Audu.
He also acknowledged former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON, Capt. Idris Wada, and Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke for their continued dedication to preserving his father’s legacy, describing their presence as a testament to the late leader’s far-reaching impact.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Chief Host of the event, described Prince Audu as a visionary leader whose transformative governance continues to shape Kogi State.
In a symbolic tribute, he announced the renaming of a major township road as Prince Abubakar Audu Boulevard, directing relevant agencies to install signage, repair roads, install streetlights, and beautify the area. The Governor emphasised that these measures are part of his administration’s ongoing commitment to uphold Prince Audu’s ideals of unity, progress, and service to the people.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume CON said that the late Prince Abubakar Audu was marked as an icon of development and great vision, noting his contribution to the development of Benue State in the time he served in Benue State.
He described him as a man who was genuinely loved by his people as one of the first Nigerians that won in a free, fair and credible elections.
The immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Adoza Bello urged everyone to reflect on the life and times of the late former governor who was a revolutionary and served with all sincerity, who while in office took bold steps that have continued to impact positively of the people of Kogi State and Nigeria even long after his demise.
The memorial also featured the inauguration of the Board of Trustees of the Prince Abubakar Audu Leadership Foundation, alongside a lecture and book review of “Prince Abubakar Audu: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership”, reviewed by former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, SAN.
Other dignitaries present included former Governors Capt. Idris Wada and Yahaya Adoza Bello, Rt. Hon. James Faleke, and numerous political and community leaders who paid tribute to the late statesman.
The 10th memorial celebration served as both a solemn remembrance and a reaffirmation of the enduring impact of Prince Abubakar Audu’s leadership, inspiring current and future generations to continue the work of unity, progress, and transformative governance in Kogi State.
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