Gunmen suspected to be bandits killed the driver of a commercial bus and abducted 8 passengers between Luma and Babana in Borgu local Government area of Niger State.

The incident happened when the deceased and others were returning from the installation of the Chairman of Borgu Kingmakers and Chief priest Bakarabonde on Saturday, December 2, 2023. 

It was gathered that a female passenger in the bus who was allegedly covered with blood pretended to have died, making the gunmen leave her.

It was further learnt that the kidnappers set the vehicle in which their victims were travelling on fire.

The Chairman of Borgu local government council, Alhaji Suleiman Yerima, who confirmed the incident on Tuesday, described it as “unfortunate” adding that he had informed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Hamidu Jantabo, who will pass the information to all relevant authorities. 

Yerima disclosed that the bandits have made contact with the local government demanding for N17million ransom.

“Where will I get N17million,” he asked. 

The Council boss advised motorists plying the roads in the local government, especially in the night to alert the local vigilantes who will provide them adequate security.