A senior staff member of FCMB Banex Branch, Wuse II, Abuja, Mr. Muhammed Ajoge, has been abducted along the Abuja-Lokoja expressway.

Ajoge, a native of Kogi State, was kidnapped on Saturday, February 22, 2025, around 2 p.m. while traveling alone to Okene to visit his father. According to sources, armed men intercepted his vehicle, forced him to stop, and led him into the forest at gunpoint.

His abduction comes at a particularly distressing time for his family, as he recently lost his mother.

The kidnappers have since contacted his wife using his mobile phone, demanding a ₦30 million ransom. However, the family’s initial ₦5 million offer was reportedly rejected.

When contacted about the situation, Ajoge’s colleagues at FCMB clarified that his trip was personal and not work-related. Consequently, the bank stated it could not take full responsibility for negotiations or police investigations without the family’s authorization.

Responding to a private inquiry on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, FCMB stated:
“Thank you for reaching out. Please be assured that we take this matter very seriously. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Ajoge and his family, and we remain hopeful for his safe return. This is receiving urgent attention.”

As of the time of this report, the police have yet to issue a statement or confirm any efforts to secure his release. The silence from security agencies raises concerns over the rising cases of kidnappings along the Abuja-Lokoja highway, a route increasingly notorious for such incidents.

Family members, colleagues, and well-wishers remain hopeful for his safe return.