Permanent Secretary kidnapped in Nasarawa, Police launch manhunt

From Abel Leonard, Lafia

Tension gripped Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, on Tuesday following the abduction of Barrister Yusuf Musa, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 15, 2025, has sparked public outcry, with the state government and security agencies swinging into action to secure his release.

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According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, a patrol team from B Division in Lafia discovered a Peugeot pick-up van parked suspiciously at the gate of the victim’s residence. On closer inspection, the officers found the gate to the compound wide open, raising immediate security concerns.

“A swift search of the premises confirmed that Barr. Yusuf Musa was missing, along with his GMC vehicle bearing registration number KUJ 88 PA, indicating a strong case of abduction,” the police spokesperson said.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, has ordered an intensive, coordinated manhunt, alerting all police divisions and tactical units across the state, including those in Akwanga, Andaha, Garaku, and Kadarko. Surveillance has been deployed along all strategic routes to intercept the abductors.

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“The Command is fully committed to rescuing the victim unhurt and bringing the perpetrators to justice,” the statement read.

The police have urged residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activity. The public is encouraged to provide credible information to aid investigations.

Meanwhile, the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Idris Mohammed, confirmed the incident in a phone conversation with our correspondent. He described the abduction as shocking and deeply disturbing.

“Yes, Barrister Yusuf Musa has been kidnapped. It’s a painful development. We are all praying for his safe return and trust that the security agencies will do everything within their power to rescue him,” he said.

Barrister Yusuf Musa is a seasoned civil servant and lawyer, well respected for his service and leadership in the state’s information and tourism sector. His sudden disappearance has prompted widespread calls for heightened security measures and improved protection for public officials across the state.

 

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