By Peter Duru

MAKURDI—The paramount ruler of Gboko North, Chief Tsegba Gbor, and father of the former Speaker pro tempore of the House of Representatives, Mr. Terngu Tsegba, has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen in Gboko Local Area of Benue State.

The paramount ruler of Gboko North, Chief Tsegba Gbor

Vanguard learned that the octogenarian was abducted, weekend, from his palace at Adekaa, Gboko-East by the armed men, who stormed his domain at about 8p.m. in two unmarked cars and whisked him away.

According to a source, “they came in two unregistered cars around 8p.m. and pretended that they were visitors seeking the counsel of the Ortar, who was at the time resting in his bedroom.

“When he came out to see the visitors, they pointed a gun at him and then bundled him into their waiting vehicle, and left.

“Unfortunately, they took him away leaving his phone behind and without allowing him access to his drugs, which he takes daily because he is not well.”

Confirming the development, eldest son of the royal father, and former Speaker, Mr. Terngu Tsegba, said the kidnappers were yet to establish contact with the family.

He said: “No one has reached us since he was taken away on Saturday and we are getting very worried because he is an old man. The matter has been reported to police who are currently investigating the matter.”

Tsegba, who expressed concern over the security situation in the state, said: “Though we are not suspecting anyone at the moment, my fear is that perhaps some of the beneficiaries of the amnesty programme of the government may be on the loose and perpetrating these vices.

“I am disturbed because cases of kidnapping have suddenly become rampant in Benue and every discerning mind should be worried at this development.

“Government must take steps to address these issues before it gets out of hand.”