20-Year-Old Food Vendor Abducted in Kogi: Community in Shock as Kidnappers Demand Ransom.

Incident Overview

In a tragic incident highlighting Nigeria's growing security challenges, Ajuma Simon, a 20-year-old petty trader, was abducted from her home in the early hours of Friday, June 6, 2025, by suspected kidnappers.

Ajuma, a native of Ukpotume, a settlement near Ugwolawo in Odolu/Igalamela Local Government Area of Kogi State, was taken at approximately 1:00 AM while she slept.

Victim Profile: A Familiar Face in the Community

Described by residents as hardworking, humble, and well-known, Ajuma earned a living by hawking cooked rice and okpa, two popular local dishes. Her visibility in the area made the incident even more painful for the tight-knit rural community.

“Ajuma was known by nearly everyone in Ukpotume and Ugwolawo,” said Ameh Adams, a community youth leader. “She hawked daily and was one of the most consistent traders around. The news of her abduction has left many heartbroken.”

Ransom Demand Sparks Outrage

The abductors, whose identities remain unknown, have reportedly contacted her family and are demanding a huge ransom in exchange for her freedom. Local rumors suggest the kidnappers may have acted on information that Ajuma had recently received a financial contribution, possibly from a communal savings group or personal windfall.

This has sparked concern that community gossip and economic desperation may be enabling targeted attacks in vulnerable areas.

Community Reactions: Fear, Frustration, and Calls for Action

The residents of Ukpotume and Ugwolawo are reeling from the shock. Some fear the incident marks a dangerous escalation in targeted abductions in Kogi's rural areas. Many are urging the state and federal government to intensify security presence and patrols, especially in hard-to-reach villages.

“If someone as harmless as Ajuma can be abducted, then no one is safe,” said another villager who requested anonymity. “We need more than prayers we need action.”

Police Involvement

As of press time, the Kogi State Police Command has yet to release an official statement. Community leaders have appealed for urgent intervention, emphasizing the immediate risk to Ajuma’s life and the potential psychological impact on residents, especially young women and traders.

Broader Context: Insecurity in Nigeria’s Middle Belt

This abduction is just one of several recent security incidents across Nigeria’s Middle Belt. Experts say a toxic mix of poverty, lack of surveillance, and porous rural boundaries is fueling a surge in kidnappings-for-ransom, particularly targeting low-income earners.

Small-scale traders like Ajuma often women working alone are increasingly vulnerable as criminal networks exploit weak local security systems.

Final Word

Ajuma Simon’s story is more than a headline it’s a sobering reminder of the growing insecurity facing millions in Nigeria’s rural communities. As her family waits in agony and her village stands in mourning, one question remains unanswered:

How many more must suffer before lasting security reforms take root in Nigeria?

Reported by WorldWire News – Nigeria Crime & Security Desk.