Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, a judge of the Bayelsa State judiciary and former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yenagoa branch, was kidnapped by masked gunmen on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at around 7:00 p.m. at Kilimanjaro Eatery, opposite Ekeki Park in Yenagoa. The gunmen, dressed in black and wearing masks, arrived in a white Hilux van and forcefully dragged Justice Omukoro into their vehicle.
According to eyewitnesses, the judge was accosted by the gunmen while sitting in his official SUV after visiting the eatery to buy bread. The kidnappers initially approached him, saying “Our Oga wants to see you,” to which Justice Omukoro responded angrily, “Are you aware I am a judge? Tell your Oga to come and see me.” Despite his resistance, the gunmen overpowered him and whisked him away.
The Bayelsa State Police Command has launched an investigation and deployed tactical teams and drones to locate the kidnappers. The police are reviewing video clips and digital footage to identify the perpetrators. Governor Douye Diri has directed all security agencies to redouble their efforts to locate and rescue the abducted judge.
The NBA Yenagoa branch has condemned the abduction, describing it as a grave threat to the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law. The incident has sparked widespread concern and outrage among residents, with many demanding swift action from the government and security agencies.
