Fresh concerns over insecurity have emerged following a deadly attack on the Okene–Auchi Federal Highway, where gunmen reportedly shot dead a soldier and abducted 13 passengers from two commercial vehicles.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening along the busy highway, which links parts of Kogi, Edo, and Delta states. The road is a major route used daily by travellers moving between Abuja, the South-South, and the South-East.
According to a security source, the attackers carried out coordinated attacks on two vehicles within a short time. The gunmen were said to be dressed in military uniforms, a tactic that has been increasingly used by criminal groups to deceive road users and security operatives.
The first attack reportedly involved a green Toyota Sienna vehicle conveying passengers from Abuja to Delta State. The vehicle was intercepted by the gunmen at a lonely stretch of the highway.
The source said the Sienna was carrying nine passengers at the time of the attack. After forcing the vehicle to stop, the attackers reportedly opened fire, creating panic among the passengers.
Six of the passengers were abducted from the vehicle and taken into the surrounding bush. However, some passengers were later rescued, though details of how the rescue occurred were not immediately clear.
“The attackers stopped the Sienna and abducted six passengers, while others were rescued,” the source said.
Shortly after the first attack, the same group of gunmen reportedly stopped another vehicle on the same highway. The second vehicle was identified as a white Toyota Hiace bus conveying passengers from Delta State to Abuja.
The bus was said to be carrying 11 passengers. According to the source, the attackers abducted seven passengers from the Hiace bus, while four others managed to escape or were rescued.
“Seven passengers were abducted from the Hiace bus, while four were rescued,” the source said.
The close timing and location of the two attacks suggest that the gunmen were operating in a coordinated manner and had prior knowledge of traffic movement on the road.
Tragically, the attack also claimed the life of a serving Non-Commissioned Officer of the Nigerian Army. The soldier was among the passengers travelling in one of the vehicles.
According to the report, the soldier identified himself to the attackers as a member of the Nigerian Army. Despite this, he was shot by the gunmen during the operation.
The killing has sparked outrage and renewed fears over the safety of both civilians and security personnel on Nigerian highways.
As of the time of filing this report, the identity of the slain soldier had not been officially released, and the Nigerian Army had not issued a formal statement on the incident.
The attackers were reportedly dressed in military uniforms, a trend that has become common in highway crimes across the country. Criminal groups often use such disguises to gain the trust of motorists or to intimidate victims into compliance.
Authorities have in the past urged citizens to remain alert and report suspicious activities, especially on highways known for criminal activity.
The Okene–Auchi Federal Highway has remained a major concern for travellers due to repeated cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, and attacks. The road passes through forested areas and hilly terrain, which criminals often use as hideouts.
Despite periodic security patrols and military operations, attacks have continued, especially during evening and night hours when traffic is lighter.
In recent months, several passengers have been abducted along the route, with families often forced to pay ransom for their release. Many Nigerians now avoid night travel on the road due to fear of attacks.
The latest incident has drawn strong reactions from members of the public, who have called on the government to strengthen security along major highways.
Some travellers have urged security agencies to increase patrols, establish permanent checkpoints, and improve intelligence gathering in known trouble spots.
Others have also called for better coordination between the military, police, and other security agencies to prevent criminals from operating freely on federal roads.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official statement from the Kogi or Edo State Police Commands regarding the attack. The Nigerian Army is also yet to confirm the killing of its personnel.
Residents and frequent users of the highway say swift action is needed to prevent further loss of lives and to secure the release of the abducted passengers.
The killing of a soldier and the abduction of 13 passengers highlight the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria, especially on major transport routes.
For many Nigerians, safe travel has become a growing concern, with families anxious each time loved ones embark on long journeys.