Local security forces combing forests in Abocho, Dekina Local Government of Kogi State, have discovered two decomposing bodies at a location between Emewe and Ofafu villages.

The security reported their findings to the police in Abocho on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The bodies were then evacuated and deposited at a morgue in Anyigba for further investigation.

The police Investigation is linking the decomposing bodies to be part of travellers abducted on January 6 while on transit from Abuja to the eastern part of the country.

It was learnt that the kidnap incident was reported to the police in Ugwolawo, Ofu Local Government of Kogi State at the time of the attack.

The Guardian learnt that family members have been able to identify one of the decomposing bodies as a relative, while the search for the identity of the second victim continued.

The local vigilantes have suggested thorough bush combing, especially around the forests in Ochadamu, Ogbabo, Ajebenehi, Oji-oto, and down to Oko-wowolo, known locations where kidnappers used to hide their victims to negotiate ransom.

The Kogi State Police Command has yet to confirm the discovery at the time of this report. The state’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Afusat Saliu Oyiza, is yet to respond to calls and messages.

In other news, Kogi State governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has restated that the safety of all residents of the state remains his top priority.

The governor also said his administration will not submit to criminality. “We have said it before, and we will say it again today. Kogi State will not negotiate with criminals. We will not surrender our communities. We will not allow bandits or terrorists to take over any part of our land. Government must be in charge, not bandits, not kidnappers, not criminal sponsors. Our government is fully prepared to confront, attack, and defeat all criminal elements operating within our territory.

“Ododo made this known at the parade ground, Chari Meigumeri barracks, Lokoja, Kogi State, while unveiling 2 HP-20 State Asset Drones procured by the state government.

He said, “Today is an important day for Kogi State as we are here to unveil security drones procured by the Kogi State Government as part of our firm commitment to protect lives and property across our state.”

“These drones have advanced surveillance, monitoring, and response capabilities. They can operate in difficult terrain, penetrate forested hideouts, support real-time intelligence gathering, and, where necessary, enable precision-led operations against terrorists and bandits. They provide early detection of suspicious movements, improve coordination between security agencies, and enable faster, intelligence-driven deployment of forces.” (The Guardian)

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