Suspected drug kingpin killed in Kogi

A suspected drug kingpin, Sumaila Ata, AKA Summy, has been killed in Kogi State.

The drug baron was killed by security agencies in Ajaka, Igalamela Odolu Local Government Area of the State.

The Transition Chairman of the Local Government, Cosmas Ilemona Atabor, confirmed this to newsmen on Saturday.

Explaining how Ata was killed, the Council boss said " It's unfortunate news that a suspected drug kingpin, Sumaila Ata, AKA Summy, was fatally shot on April 19, 2024, in the peaceful town of Ajaka within Igalamela/Odolu Local Government.

"This incident casts a shadow over our community's reputation. Let us pray for the soul of the deceased and for positive change among our youth. Amen.

"What truly stands out is that Sumaila Ata had been a target of security agencies, repeatedly evading capture until his demise. On April 19, 2024, the agencies received credible intelligence that he had received a large shipment of illegal drugs for distribution to unsuspecting youths. Swift action was taken to prevent further harm to our community.

"When security agents tracked him down, members of his gang tried to obstruct his arrest while he attempted to escape on a red motorcycle. During the pursuit, he brandished a weapon, leading to his fatal shooting by the agents.

"While regrettable, this incident underscores the crucial work of our security agencies in combating crime for the well-being of our people."

The Council boss, however, debunked the information making the rounds that he had allegedly provided a list of individuals for "liquidation" by security agencies.

"This is entirely false. The agencies acted based on credible intelligence to apprehend Sumaila Ata. There is no such list. I am committed to peace and non-violence and urge caution in spreading unverified information" he added.

He admonished the general public to join hands with his administration in eradicating drug-related crimes and other social ills in his community, Kogi State, and Nigeria at large.

Items recovered from the deceased suspects include a motorcycle, a locally made pistol and hard drugs suspected to be cannabis sativa, amongst others.