Unidentified armed men have abducted Barrister Yusuf Musa, the Permanent Secretary of the Nasarawa State Ministry of Information, Tourism, and Culture. The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday at his residence in the Shinge area of Lafia, the state capital.
The Nasarawa State Police Command confirmed the incident, describing it as a suspected case of kidnapping. Authorities say efforts are underway to secure Musa’s release and apprehend the perpetrators.
According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Ramhan Nansel, the abduction came to light when officers on routine patrol spotted a suspiciously abandoned vehicle.
“Around 3:05 a.m. on Tuesday, a patrol unit from B Division, Lafia, came across a Peugeot pick-up van with all doors left open. Further inspection revealed that the gate to the victim’s residence was also ajar,” the statement read.
Upon entering the premises, police confirmed that the permanent secretary was missing. His GMC SUV, bearing registration number KUJ 88 PA, was also unaccounted for.
Following the discovery, the Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro Mohammed, ordered the immediate deployment of tactical units across the state. Checkpoints and surveillance operations have since been activated along key routes in Akwanga, Garaku, Andaha, and Kadarko.
“An intensive manhunt is now underway,” the police statement added. “The command remains committed to securing Barrister Musa’s safe return and ensuring that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice.”
The police have called on members of the public to remain calm and assist law enforcement with credible information.
Citizens with relevant details have been asked to contact the nearest police station or reach the command via emergency lines: 08036157659, 08037461715, or 07032532391.
As of the time of reporting, no group has claimed responsibility, and the motive behind the abduction remains unclear.
