Osun Integrity Group Thanks Troops as Hon. Omole, Group’s SW National Vice Chairman, and 16 Others Rescued from Kidnappers in Kogi
Seventeen kidnapped victims, including 13 adults and four children, have been rescued by troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army in Kogi State. Among those rescued was Hon. Omole, the National Vice Chairman (Southwest) of the Integrity Group of Nigeria.
The victims, who were travelling in a 17-seater bus from Osun State to Abuja, were intercepted by armed men at Opamaru Village along the Obajana–Lokoja Road on September 10, 2025.
According to reports, troops at Patrol Base Apata swiftly mobilized after receiving intelligence on the incident. Reinforced by the Brigade Quick Response Group, the soldiers traced the kidnappers’ trail to Wuro Village in Adavi Local Government Area. There, they engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle.
In a statement, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, explained that the kidnappers were overpowered by the troops’ superior firepower and fled into the bush with gunshot wounds, abandoning all 17 hostages. The victims were later evacuated to the 12 Brigade Medical Centre for first aid and stabilization.
The Osun State Chapter of the Integrity Group of Nigeria has since expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Army and local vigilantes for their swift and courageous intervention. In a statement released by its Publicity Secretary, Hon. Alade Ismail, the State Chairman of the group, Comrade Salam Mustapha, commended the security forces for their professionalism and bravery in rescuing the victims unharmed.
Comrade Mustapha particularly thanked the soldiers for saving the life of Hon. Omole, the group’s National Vice Chairman (Southwest), describing the rescue as a divine intervention and a testament to the Nigerian Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
He further praised the collaborative efforts of the Hybrid Forces and local vigilantes, noting that their contribution played a vital role in ensuring the success of the operation.
The Nigerian Army has assured residents of Kogi and neighbouring states of its continued resolve to combat criminality and protect communities, urging members of the public to support security agencies with credible and timely information.
E-signed
Comr. Salam Mustapha Chairman, Integrity Group of Nigeria, Osun State September 11, 2025
