Bandits have abducted Ahmed Mohammed, popularly known as Barrister Ahmed Lawyer, a commissioner with the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission, along with his driver, former SUBEB Chairman Mohammed Bawa Niworu, and dozens of motorists.
The abduction took place in the early hours of Monday September 29, along the Zugurma–Ibbi–New Bussa Road near Ibbi National Park in Mashegu Local Government Area.
A source disclosed that the victims were returning from Borgu when the gunmen struck. “Their vehicle was later found abandoned by the roadside, with their mobile phones left inside,” the source said.
The bandits reportedly blocked the highway ahead of a police checkpoint before ambushing travellers along the Ibbi–Bussa route.
A police tactical team engaged the attackers and successfully repelled them, though one officer sustained gunshot injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
A commercial driver who uses the route reported that at least three Sharon buses loaded with passengers were seized and driven away by the bandits to unknown locations.
Confirming the incident, the Niger State Police Command spokesman, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said a police patrol vehicle was riddled with bullets during the confrontation.
“The Police Command has deployed additional tactical teams in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilante groups to pursue the kidnappers, rescue the victims, and apprehend the suspects,” SP Abiodun stated.
Authorities are continuing their investigation, and efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe release of the abducted individuals.