The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Ogugu State Constituency, Hon. Michael Samuel Idoko, has mourned the death of Hon. Rosemary Ben Adukwu, the councillor representing Ogugu Ward III in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, describing her passing as a collective loss to the community.
In a condolence message, Idoko said the councillor’s reported abduction and subsequent killing had left her family, constituents and political associates grieving, while reinforcing the need for stronger protection of lives across Ogugu and neighbouring communities.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved family, the Ogugu United Forum, the PDP family, traditional leaders and the wider Ogugu community.
“As a son of Ogugu and the PDP candidate for Ogugu State Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, I regard this tragedy not merely as the loss of an elected public official, but as a collective loss to a community whose aspirations she was entrusted to represent,” Idoko said.
Idoko Demands Investigation and Justice
Idoko called on security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the councillor’s abduction and death, identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
He said the family and the people of Ogugu deserved accountability, alongside assurances that steps were being taken to prevent similar incidents.
“No public servant, mother, daughter or citizen should be subjected to such a tragic ordeal. Every human life is precious, and the protection of lives and property must remain a fundamental responsibility of government and a shared commitment of society,” he said.
His appeal comes amid continuing concerns about abductions in Kogi, including the kidnapping of passengers travelling on a major highway and the reported abduction of a newlywed couple along a Kogi route.
Call for Stronger Security Across Ogugu
The PDP candidate urged the authorities to intensify security operations, improve intelligence gathering and strengthen cooperation with community stakeholders across Ogugu and surrounding communities.
He said residents should be able to go about their daily activities without persistent fear of kidnapping and violence.
The call highlights the importance of sustained operations beyond individual interventions, such as the rescue of kidnapped victims following a gun battle in Itobe and the interception of an arms cache in Kogi.
Idoko also urged the community to remain united and support the bereaved family, saying the tragedy should strengthen a shared commitment to peace and the protection of human life.
‘A Moment for Solidarity Beyond Politics’
Idoko said mourning the councillor should transcend political affiliations and personal differences, with community leaders, residents and political associates offering compassion to those affected.
His appeal for unity echoes wider calls for peaceful engagement in Kogi, including Usman Jibrin’s condemnation of political violence in Ejule.
“Although no words can adequately heal the pain of such a loss, our collective compassion and solidarity can offer some measure of comfort to those who are mourning,” Idoko said.
Speaking on behalf of his family, he prayed for the councillor’s eternal rest, comfort for her loved ones and lasting peace across Ogugu.
“Your passing is a collective loss, and your memory will remain with the people of Ogugu,” he added.
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