By SUNTV Global Channel
January 6, 2026 | News
Suspected bandits have killed a man identified as Agba, a native of Egbe community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, despite the full payment of ransom demanded by the kidnappers.
SUNTV Global Channel gathered that Agba was one of two community members who volunteered to deliver ransom items to secure the release of Mabe, who was abducted by gunmen along the Egbe–Ogbe Road on December 16, 2025.
According to local community platform Egbe Mekun, the bandits negotiated and agreed on ransom terms before instructing the community to send emissaries with the demanded items. The kidnappers reportedly collected a Bajaj motorcycle, a brand-new Samsung phone, and over ₦1 million in cash.
However, despite complying fully with the demands, the ransom mission reportedly ended in tragedy. Sources said that while one of the two ransom bearers was later released, Agba was allegedly killed while in the custody of the bandits after attempting to escape.
Mabe, the original victim of the abduction, was eventually released by the kidnappers on December 27, 2025, several days after the ransom was paid.
The killing has heightened fears among residents of Yagba communities, already battling a surge in violent attacks linked to banditry and kidnapping.
In a related incident, terrorists were reported to have attacked Idofin community in Yagba East Local Government Area on January 3, 2026, between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., killing one person and injuring another. The deceased was identified as a Tiv man, while the injured victim sustained serious wounds.
According to community sources, the injured person was later evacuated by military personnel and taken to an undisclosed hospital for medical treatment.
Residents have continued to call on security agencies and the Kogi State Government to step up efforts to curb the rising wave of bandit attacks and kidnappings in the area, warning that lives remain at risk as criminals operate with increasing brutality.
