Police launch manhunt for kidnappers of Nasarawa Permanent Secretary

The Nasarawa State Police Command has launched a statewide manhunt following the suspected abduction of Barrister Yusuf Musa, the Permanent Secretary of the state’s Ministry of Information.

According to a statement released on Tuesday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Ramhan Nansel, the incident was first detected around 3:05 a.m. by a patrol team from B Division in Lafia, who discovered an abandoned Peugeot pickup van with its doors left wide open in a suspicious manner.

Further investigation led officers to the victim’s residence, where they found the gate ajar. A search confirmed that Barr. Yusuf Musa was missing, along with his black GMC SUV bearing registration number KUJ 88 PA.

“The circumstances surrounding the discovery strongly indicate an abduction,” Nansel stated, noting that the abandoned vehicle and unsecured premises immediately triggered concern.

In response, Commissioner of Police Shetima Jauro Mohammed ordered the deployment of tactical units across the state and activated an alert to all divisional commands, including those in Akwanga, Andaha, Garaku, and Kadarko. Surveillance operations have also been set in motion along strategic routes believed to be possible escape paths for the suspects.

“The Commissioner has ordered an intensive statewide manhunt and reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safe rescue of the victim and the immediate apprehension of those responsible,” the statement added.

The Police Command urged residents to stay calm but vigilant and encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity that could aid the investigation. Citizens with useful information can contact the Command through its emergency lines: 08036157659, 08037461715, or 07032532391.