Gunmen suspected to be bandits have reportedly killed one soldier and abducted one other, leaving behind a motorcycle the two soldiers used to convey themselves to Idadu Army camp, along Ibbabu-Idadu in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

A military source, who pleaded for anonymity, said that the deceased soldier was in mufti when his attackers ambushed him and kidnapped his colleague.

According to the source, bandits always terrorise farmers, market men and women on market day at Ibbabu-Idadu, robbing them and in some cases, raping the women.

It was learnt that the late army officer hailed from Gombe State and was attached to Idadu army camp in Doma.

“The late army officer was attacked and axed by the bandits and his motorcycle thrown into the river along the road. His colleague was abducted and taken to an unknown destination.

“The ugly death of the army officer has ignited panic in Doma and its environs including Yelwa Ediys Igbabo Idadu Opkatta Rukubu Akpanaja, Doka, Ajimaka, Okpanya as farmers no longer go to the farm,” the source added.

The military source, however, said the 4 Special Force Doma had already drafted its personnel to comb the entire area and ensure that the bandits are arrested.

Meanwhile, the Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, has condoled with the Commander 4 Special Force Doma, Major General. O.O. Soyele, over the killing of the officer.

The deputy governor, who was at the 4SFB Doma, described the murder of the officer as a colossal loss to the Nigerian Army and the nation as a whole and prayed that God will grant him eternal rest and forgive his shortcomings.

While expressing his appreciation to the deputy governor on the condolence visit, Major General Soyele applauded the state government for finding time to identify with the command, adding that the army authorities were on top of the situation. (Daily Trust)