Gunmen Kill Edo Palace Chief, Abduct Two Daughters

A high-ranking palace chief in Edo State, Jimah Jacob Ogboi, has been killed by gunmen who also abducted his two daughters during a brazen attack that has sent shockwaves through the local community. The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the incident and announced that a full-scale investigation has been launched to apprehend the perpetrators and rescue the abducted victims.

According to police reports, the attackers struck at the chiefs residence, shooting him dead before fleeing with his two daughters. The motive for the attack remains unclear, though security sources suggest that kidnapping for ransom may have been the primary objective, with the killing occurring during a confrontation or as a means of eliminating resistance.

Chief Ogboi was described by community members as a respected traditional leader who held a prominent position within the palace hierarchy. His killing represents not only a personal tragedy for his family but also an assault on the traditional institutions that form the bedrock of governance in many Nigerian communities.

The abduction of the two daughters adds another layer of anguish to an already devastating incident. Kidnapping has become an increasingly prevalent security challenge across Nigeria, with criminal gangs targeting individuals from all walks of life—from wealthy businessmen to traditional rulers and their families.

The Edo State Police spokesperson stated that anti-kidnapping units have been deployed to track the gunmen and secure the safe release of the abducted women. He appealed to members of the public to provide any information that could assist in the investigation, assuring that all tips would be treated with confidentiality.

Community leaders have condemned the attack and called for urgent government intervention to address the deteriorating security situation. They noted that traditional rulers and their families should not be targets of criminal violence, as their role in maintaining social cohesion and interfacing between communities and government makes them essential to the fabric of society.

The incident has left residents in the area gripped with fear, with many calling for enhanced police presence and the deployment of additional security resources to prevent future occurrences. Some community members have also suggested the formation of vigilante groups to complement official security efforts, though such measures carry their own risks.

As the police investigation continues, the family of Chief Ogboi and the entire community await news of the abducted daughters, hoping for their safe return and for justice to be served.