Abducted Kogi Monarch Regains Freedom After Security Rescue Operation

The District Head of Bagaji Odo in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State, Chief David Akpa, who was abducted by gunmen earlier in the week, has regained his freedom.

His release was confirmed in a statement on Saturday by Gift Idoga, Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Omala LGA, Hon. Edibo Mark.

Chief Akpa was kidnapped on Monday, September 1, 2025, by armed men who whisked him into a nearby forest, sparking tension across the community.

According to the statement, the monarch’s rescue was achieved through the combined efforts of local hunters, vigilante groups, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, all working under the coordination of the council chairman.

“Since the abduction, the Executive Chairman of Omala LGA swung into action, detailing a joint task force made up of hunters, vigilantes, police, and the Nigerian Army. The chairman also personally joined the search on two occasions,” the statement read in part.

Chief Akpa was reportedly rescued in the early hours of Thursday and is currently receiving medical attention at the residence of the council chairman.

The development has been widely welcomed by residents of Omala LGA, who had been thrown into fear following the monarch’s abduction.

Security agencies have yet to confirm if any arrests were made in connection with the incident, but local sources suggest efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing kidnappers.

Kogi State, like many parts of the North-Central, has witnessed recurring cases of kidnappings targeting traditional rulers, commuters, and farmers in recent months, despite heightened security operations.