By: Ovieomeleh
Yenagoa, Nigeria –Tension gripped residents of Bayelsa State on Saturday night following the brazen abduction of a High Court judge, Justice E.G. Umokoro, in front of a popular eatery in the heart of Yenagoa.
The incident occurred around 7:00 p.m. at the Ekeki area along the Chief Melford Okilo Expressway, where the respected jurist had parked to wait for his daughter, who had stepped into the restaurant to make some purchases.
According to eyewitness accounts, six armed men dressed in what appeared to be a familiar uniform descended on the judge’s vehicle. They reportedly beat him with the butts of their guns and fired shots into the air to disperse onlookers before forcibly dragging him into a waiting Toyota Hilux and fleeing the scene.
A State on Edge
The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed the incident on Sunday.
Spokesperson DSP Musa Mohammed told reporters in Yenagoa:
“Justice E.G. Umokoro, a serving judge of the Bayelsa State High Court, was abducted on Saturday evening from his car at a fast food outlet in Ekeki.
Tactical teams and aerial surveillance units have been deployed to track down the perpetrators and ensure his safe rescue.”
The motive for the abduction remains unknown as of press time, but the boldness of the attack has raised serious security concerns in a state already grappling with a rise in cult-related violence and targeted killings.
💥 A Calculated Operation
Sources say the operation was swift and coordinated, lasting just a few minutes. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as diners and passersby fled in fear. The gunmen reportedly executed the assault with military-style precision, suggesting it may have been carefully premeditated.
One eyewitness, who requested anonymity, said:
“It was like a movie scene. They were heavily armed and didn’t speak much. One of them hit the judge and pushed him out of the car. They knew exactly what they came for.”
🕯️ A Growing Climate of Insecurity
This high-profile kidnapping comes amid a disturbing spike in violent crimes across Bayelsa State in recent weeks. Residents are calling on the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to restore order and protect citizens—especially high-ranking public officials.
Human rights groups and legal associations have begun issuing statements of concern, describing the incident as a “desecration of the judiciary” and a worrying signal that no one is immune from criminal targeting.
🔍 What’s Next?
As the manhunt intensifies, the fate of Justice Umokoro remains uncertain. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, while assuring the public that efforts to secure his release are ongoing.
For now, Bayelsa holds its breath, waiting for answers, and hoping for justice.
.jpg)
0 Comments