Tension gripped residents of Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, on Tuesday morning following the abduction of Barr. Yusuf Musa, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.
According to preliminary reports, Barr. Musa was reportedly kidnapped from his residence in the early hours of the morning.
A patrol team from B Division of the Nigeria Police discovered his Peugeot pickup van abandoned with its doors flung open at the gate of his residence, triggering immediate security concerns.
The team, upon further inspection, noticed that the main gate of the house was wide open, raising suspicions that something had gone wrong. A swift check confirmed that the Permanent Secretary was missing, along with another vehicle, a GMC SUV with registration number KUJ 88 PA.
Police Confirm Abduction, Vow Swift Action
In an official statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Nasarawa State Police Command, SP Ramhan Nansel, the Command confirmed the suspected abduction and assured the public that intensive efforts are underway to ensure the victim’s safe return.
“At about 03:05hrs, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a police patrol team discovered an abandoned Peugeot pickup van with its doors wide open.
A subsequent search confirmed that Barr. Yusuf Musa was missing from the premises, alongside his GMC vehicle,” the statement read.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, has since ordered a coordinated tactical operation, activating all police formations across the state, including Akwanga, Andaha, Garaku, and Kadarko, while deploying surveillance units along major exit routes to intercept the suspected abductors.
Statewide Manhunt Underway
The Police Commissioner further ordered an intensive manhunt for the perpetrators and reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to securing the victim’s release and bringing the culprits to justice.
The Command also urged members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and assist with credible information that could aid the investigation.
“Anyone with useful information is encouraged to report to the nearest police station or contact the Command’s emergency lines: 08036157659, 08037461715, and 07032532391,” the statement concluded.
