The reported incident in Ankpa has triggered calls for a police investigation, with questions remaining about the circumstances of the death and the identities of those involved.
By Wapcodehub9ja LIVE News Desk
A young man identified in media reports as AbdulHakim or AbdulHahim has reportedly died following an encounter with individuals described as local vigilantes in Ankpa, headquarters of Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State. The incident, reportedly linked to an allegation of cable theft, has raised renewed concerns about suspected extrajudicial punishment and the handling of criminal allegations in the community.
The incident was reported to have occurred on Thursday, October 15, 2026. According to accounts accompanying a circulating video, the young man was heard pleading for his life during the encounter. He reportedly appealed to those around him to spare him, saying he was his mother’s only son. The disturbing account has drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding the incident and the need for an impartial investigation.
The allegation of cable theft against the deceased has not been established through a judicial process. Regardless of the accusation, a suspect is entitled to lawful treatment, and allegations of wrongdoing should be investigated by the appropriate authorities. Vigilante groups and private individuals do not have the authority to impose a death sentence or use lethal violence as punishment for suspected theft.
Reports have also described differing reactions among Ankpa residents. While some have condemned the reported killing and called for accountability, others have expressed support for tough action against suspected criminals. However, public anger over theft or other offences cannot replace police investigation, prosecution and determination of guilt by a competent court.
Trust Radio reported that a source associated with the local vigilante group known as Atakpo denied the group’s involvement, saying it had no hand in the incident. The report also quoted Kogi State Police Command spokesperson ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat as saying she had not yet confirmed the incident and would respond after obtaining further information. These statements underline the need to establish the identities of those involved and determine exactly what happened.
The case now raises questions that require answers from the relevant authorities: what led to the confrontation, who was present, whether any suspects have been identified, and what steps the police have taken to investigate the reported death. The victim’s name also requires confirmation, as published accounts have used different spellings.
Wapcodehub9ja LIVE News calls for a thorough, impartial investigation and appropriate legal action if anyone is found responsible for an unlawful killing. A credible investigation would help establish the facts, address public concern and reinforce the principle that allegations of crime must be handled through lawful procedures rather than violence.
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