A serving councillor in Kogi State, Rosemary Aduku, has died after spending eight days in the hands of kidnappers, prompting grief among colleagues and residents of her community.
Aduku, who represented Ogugu Ward III in Olamaboro Local Government Area, was reportedly abducted on October 1. Her death was announced on Friday by the local government chairman, Ameh Williams, on behalf of the Olamaboro Executive Council.
The circumstances surrounding her death were not immediately clear. It was also unknown whether her abductors demanded or received a ransom.
In a condolence statement, Williams described the late councillor, popularly known as Hon. Rosella, as a humble and dependable person who cared about the welfare of those around her.
“It is with deep sorrow we announce the sudden demise of our dear sister and colleague, Hon. Mrs Rosemary Aduku,” the statement read.
The chairman said her death was a painful loss to the Olamaboro Legislative Council, the local government executive, her family and the Ogugu community.
He added that Aduku would be remembered for her character and commitment to the happiness of others, expressing hope that her contributions would remain part of her legacy.
Williams also prayed for strength for her family, colleagues and constituents as they mourned her death.
The local government announced that the councillor would be buried at 1 pm on Friday at her family compound in Ogugu Centre. Members of the All Progressives Congress were invited to attend the burial and pay their last respects.
Her death comes amid renewed concerns over kidnapping in the country. In a separate incident in Imo State, 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members abducted on October 1 were rescued on October 7 after security agencies conducted search-and-rescue operations.
The circumstances of the two incidents are different. Police said the rescued prospective corps members were taken for medical assessment, while efforts continued to arrest those responsible for their abduction.
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