Abatemi-Usman Condemns Abduction Of American Missionary In Kogi

The Senator representing Kogi Central in the Red Chamber and candidate of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) for Kogi Central Senatorial election, Senator Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman, has condemned the abduction of an American missionary, Rev. Mrs. Phillis Sortor in Kogi State.

The 80-year-old missionary worker with Methodist Church resident in Emi-Woro community along Ajaokuta/Okene road was reported to have been abducted by unknown gunmen within the church premises on Tuesday.

In a statement issued by Abatemi-Usman's media aide, Michael Jegede, the Senator described as callous and ruthless the action of the kidnappers, wondering what they intend to achieve from putting an old innocent woman who has dedicated her life to the service of God and humanity in Nigeria through such an excruciating pain.

The PPA chieftain called on the security agents, especially the police to leave no stone unturned to ensure the immediate release of the missionary from the hands of her abductors, warning that nothing should happen to the aged woman.

The Senator lamented the increasing cases of crime such as kidnappings, assassinations and armed robberies in the Central Senatorial District of Kogi State, stressing that effort must be made to nab the perpetrators and bring them to book to serve as deterrent to others involved in criminal activities in the area.

He further called on the people of Kogi Central to be vigilant and always report any suspicious activity to security agents, adding that the peace that has come to stay in the district must be sustained.

Also in the statement, Abatemi-Usman applauded the Nigerian Military for their efforts in surmounting the Boko Haram sect. According to him, every Nigerian should give kudos to the military officers for their recent gains against the terrorists, whose nefarious activities have claimed the lives of over 13,000 innocent citizens and caused the destruction of property worth billions of naira.

He described as a welcome development the announcement of a special promotion for all soldiers involved in the liberation of Baga in Borno State from Boko Haram militants by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Kenneth Minimah, maintaining that the officers deserved such reward for their gallant effort in flushing out the insurgents.

SIGNED: MICHAEL JEGEDE
MEDIA AIDE TO SENATOR NURUDEEN ABATEMI-USMAN
REPRESENTING KOGI CENTRAL SENATORIAL DISTRICT