A retired Permanent Secretary from Gombe State, Alhaji Atiku Mu’azu, has been tragically killed after being abducted by gunmen in Kano State. This heartbreaking incident occurred despite a N10 million ransom paid by his family to secure his release.
Atiku, a former Chairman of the Gombe State Board of Internal Revenue Service, had been enjoying his retirement in the Kabuga/Jan Bulo Estate along Gwarzo Road, Kano, before the tragedy struck.
How It Happened
According to reports, Atiku was lured into a trap when his mechanic informed him that his stolen car had been found. The mechanic instructed him to meet at an undisclosed location to recover the vehicle. Upon arriving at the spot, Atiku was ambushed and taken hostage by the kidnappers.
A family source revealed that the abductors initially demanded N20 million for his release. However, the family managed to gather N10 million, which was handed over to the criminals. Despite receiving the ransom, the kidnappers callously murdered Atiku and left his body by a roadside in a different location.
One suspect has been arrested in connection with the crime, while the mechanic, believed to have played a significant role, remains at large.
Governor Yahaya Reacts
Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed profound grief and shock over Atiku’s murder. In a condolence message issued by the Director-General of Press Affairs for Gombe Government House, the Governor extended his sympathies to Atiku’s family and the people of Kalishen in Shongom Local Government Area, where the deceased hailed from.
Governor Yahaya praised security agencies for swiftly apprehending a suspect and called for a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served.
“On behalf of the government and people of Gombe State, I offer heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and associates of the deceased,” the statement read.
Police Warn of Threats in Kano
The tragic incident coincided with heightened security concerns in Kano State. The Kano State Police Command recently warned of plans by suspected terrorists to attack strategic public facilities in the state.
In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, the police urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid crowded areas as a precaution.
The police disclosed that intelligence reports indicated plots by terrorists to target public gatherings. To counter this threat, the Command has deployed specialized units, including the Explosive Ordinance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear units, to strategic locations across the state.
Hotlines for Emergency Reporting
The police also shared emergency contact numbers for reporting suspicious activities or emergencies, emphasizing the need for community cooperation. Residents were encouraged to report unusual movements to the nearest police station or call the emergency numbers provided.
A Community in Mourning
The death of Atiku Mu’azu has left his family, friends, and the people of Gombe State in deep mourning. The incident highlights the growing concerns about insecurity and the need for more effective measures to combat crime.
As investigations continue, many Nigerians are hoping that the culprits will face justice and that similar tragedies can be prevented in the future. Meanwhile, residents in Kano have been urged to stay alert and cooperate with security agencies to ensure public safety.
Anambra Hotel Demolished After Discovery of Graves, Shrine, Ammunition
In a shocking discovery, a hotel in Anambra State has been demolished after authorities uncovered over 30 graves, a shrine, ammunition, and other disturbing items on its premises. The operation was carried out by the state’s newly established security outfit, Operation Udo Ga-Achi, also known as “Agunechemba.”
The demolished building, identified as Udoka Golden Point Hotel and Suites, popularly referred to as “La Cruise Hotel,” was located along the Onitsha-Owerri Road. The hotel reportedly served as a base for kidnappers and other criminal elements.
Discovery of Graves and Shrine
A statement released by the Anambra State New Media and shared on social media late Saturday night detailed the gruesome findings. According to the security team, the top floor of the two-story building contained well-partitioned graves of over 30 individuals. In addition to the graves, a shrine used for criminal rituals was discovered, along with live ammunition and cartridges.
A video clip circulating online showed a member of the security team describing the scene. “We found their shrine and recovered live cartridges and ammunition,” the team leader explained. “The pot used in their rituals, which contained blood, was also recovered and handed over to the police at the SARS office in Awkuzu. Feathers and other ritual materials were also found.”
The team leader added, “They built the shrine on the top floor of the hotel where most of their spiritual activities were carried out. The graves were carefully partitioned in a disturbing manner, further confirming the criminal nature of the activities in the building.”
Background of the Security Operation
The demolition is part of a broader effort by the Anambra State government to tackle criminal activities across the state. Operation Udo Ga-Achi, established by Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration, has been actively targeting kidnappers, armed robbers, and other criminal networks. Earlier in January, the outfit successfully raided other notorious hideouts in Isiagu, Awka South Local Government Area, leading to arrests and recoveries of weapons.
Speaking about the recent operation, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Soludo, Mr. Christian Aburime, confirmed the demolition and described it as a necessary step in the fight against crime. “The hotel was destroyed because investigations revealed it was a kidnappers’ den. A lot of alarming discoveries were made there, including graves, army uniforms, and live cartridges,” he said.
Community’s Reaction
Residents of the area expressed relief and gratitude following the demolition. For months, the community had been troubled by frequent gunshots and suspicious activities around the hotel. However, fear of retaliation had prevented many from reporting these incidents to the authorities.
Mr. Aburime highlighted the role of the Homeland Security Law 2025 in encouraging citizens to provide information about criminal activities without fear. “People were afraid to give credible reports in the past because of the risks involved. But with the new security measures in place, it is now easier to identify and apprehend criminals,” he explained.
Government’s Warning to Criminals
The Anambra State government has reiterated its commitment to ridding the state of crime and maintaining law and order. Mr. Aburime warned that other properties linked to criminal activities would face similar actions. “More buildings will be destroyed if investigations reveal they are connected to kidnapping, robbery, or hired killings,” he said. “The owners of such properties will also be prosecuted.”
He commended the efforts of the Agunechemba security outfit, stating that the government’s decisive actions are already yielding positive results. “We are making significant progress in clearing Anambra State of criminals, and this drastic action demonstrates the government’s resolve to protect the lives and property of its citizens.”
Public Support for Security Efforts
The demolition has drawn widespread support from residents and other stakeholders in the state. Many believe that such bold actions are necessary to restore peace and ensure a safe environment for economic activities to thrive.
One community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, praised the government for its proactive approach. “For a long time, this hotel was a source of fear and suspicion in our community. We are glad that the government has taken action to address the issue,” he said.
The Role of Security Agencies
The police and other security agencies have also been commended for their cooperation with the Agunechemba outfit. The recovered items, including the ritual pot, ammunition, and other evidence, have been handed over to the police for further investigation.
The State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is expected to conduct a detailed inquiry to determine the identities of the victims and the extent of the criminal network operating from the hotel.
Impact on Crime in Anambra
The recent actions by the state government are part of a broader strategy to address the rise in criminal activities in Anambra. Governor Soludo has consistently emphasized the importance of a secure environment for the development of the state. The government has also increased funding for security operations and introduced innovative measures to strengthen law enforcement.
