Gunmen Abduct 90-Year-Old Father of ADC Candidate

On October 6, 2026, gunmen abducted Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwen, a 90-year-old man and father of the Edo South Senatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), from his home in the Amagba area. The details surrounding the kidnapping remain unclear, but security agencies are actively working to secure his release.

The incident has raised concerns about potential political motives due to the victim's familial ties to a senatorial candidate. Hon. Kassim Afegbua, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, condemned the kidnapping, labeling it "morally reprehensible," and cautioned against blaming the state government, as such accusations could undermine efforts to combat insecurity.

Governor Monday Okpebholo has directed security agencies to coordinate their efforts for the immediate rescue of Pa Iduoriyekemwen. Afegbua also noted that a special court in Edo State recently sentenced four kidnappers to death, emphasizing the seriousness of the crime.