Bodies of Abducted Kaduna Woman and Driver Discovered in Kogi Forest After N3.5 Million Ransom Payment
The tragic discovery of two corpses in a forest in Kogi State has highlighted the brutal reality of kidnapping in Nigeria, even after ransom payments are made. The bodies have been identified as those of Loveth Zarah Alegbe, a young woman from Kaduna State, and Nweke Bartholomew Chukwuma, an interstate commercial driver.
Separate Abductions, Same Criminal Gang
According to sources who spoke to SaharaReporters on Friday, January 30, 2026, the victims were abducted in separate incidents on January 6, 2026. Despite being taken at different times and locations, they were held by the same criminal gang operating across parts of Kogi State.
Loveth Alegbe was reportedly kidnapped in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State while she was traveling from Lagos to Abuja. In a related incident, Chukwuma was intercepted along his route while conveying passengers from Abuja to the eastern part of Nigeria.
Ransom Negotiations and Payment
Family sources revealed that the kidnappers established contact and demanded a ransom of N3.5 million for the release of both victims. After intense fundraising efforts and negotiations, the families reportedly paid the full amount, hoping it would secure the safe return of their loved ones.
However, the situation took a dark turn shortly after the payment was made. The kidnappers allegedly went silent, refusing to answer phone calls or provide any information about the captives' whereabouts.
Grim Discovery in Abocho Forest
Growing fears prompted relatives and local contacts to initiate a search, which eventually led to the grim discovery. Local security operatives found the lifeless bodies in the Abocho area of Dekina Local Government Area, deep within a forested stretch known for repeated kidnapping activities.
Following the discovery, security operatives were alerted, and the Nigeria Police reportedly assisted in evacuating the bodies. Chukwuma's remains were subsequently transported to Enugu State for burial arrangements by his family, while Loveth's body was returned to Kaduna for her final rites.
Ongoing Security Concerns
This incident underscores the persistent security challenges in certain regions of Nigeria, where criminal gangs continue to exploit kidnapping for ransom. The Abocho forest area has been noted for its history of such activities, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current security measures.
The families' ordeal highlights the devastating impact of kidnapping on Nigerian communities, even when financial demands are met. As investigations continue, questions remain about the motives behind the kidnappers' actions and the broader implications for security policy in affected areas.
