Vigilantes Rescue 13 Kidnap Victims in Kogi State

On May 9, 2026, the Vigilant Group Nigeria's anti-kidnap squad, led by Suleiman Abiodun, successfully rescued 13 individuals who had been kidnapped in the Egum area of Anyigba, Kogi State. The victims were abducted on April 26, 2026, while traveling from Calabar, Cross River State, to Abuja for a program.

The rescue operation took place around 4 PM and was supported by the Nigerian Police Force. The identities of the rescued victims include Pastor Victor Edet Okon, Merci Victor Okon, Bassei Bassei Ekpenyong, Sarah Bassei Ekpenyong, Perfect Bomba, Christian Georg, Mari Godswill Asuquo, Mari Bassei Kanu, Rita Effiom, Maria Undi, Mari Joseph Ibora, and Johnson Prosper Ebuara.

The command did not disclose whether any arrests were made during the operation or if a ransom was paid for the victims' release. This rescue comes amid growing concerns over the rise in kidnapping cases along major highways in Kogi State.