In a remarkable display of courage and quick thinking, Nigerian Air Force officer, Air Commodore John Ijudigal, successfully thwarted a robbery and kidnapping attempt by notorious ‘one-chance’ operators in Abuja.
The incident unfolded on the evening of February 14, 2024, on Accra Road, Wuse Zone 5, resulting in the capture of three suspects and the rescue of two kidnapped victims.
At approximately 7:28 pm, Air Commodore Ijudigal, on his way home in his official staff car, encountered a distressing scene. An Abuja-painted taxi, identified as a Mazda 323 with registration BWR 232 XB, was reversing at high speed with terrified passengers screaming for help. In pursuit was a black Toyota Land Cruiser.
Responding instinctively, Air Commodore Ijudigal joined the chase, using his official vehicle to block the escape route of the criminals.
The daring pursuit led to a collision between Air Commodore Ijudigal’s vehicle and the ‘one-chance’ taxi, causing significant damage to both cars. The impact forced the criminals’ vehicle to skid into a nearby garden.
Without hesitation, Ijudigal swiftly exited his vehicle, pursued and apprehended one of the suspects who had fled into a nearby bush. With the assistance of onlookers at the scene, the driver of the ‘one-chance’ taxi, along with two other suspects (a male and a female), were captured, and two female victims were successfully rescued.
Following the apprehension, Air Commodore Ijudigal immediately contacted the nearest police post and personally delivered the three criminals to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, Mr. Benneth Igweh, at his office.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Mr. Benneth Igweh, commended Air Commodore Ijudigal for his bravery, stating that his intervention not only thwarted a potential tragedy but also contributed significantly to the apprehension of criminals posing a security risk to law-abiding citizens. Igweh praised the senior officer’s actions as a demonstration of unwavering commitment to public service, reinstating confidence in the security forces.
Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff, expressed his commendation for Air Commodore Ijudigal’s bravery and selfless service. The senior officer, a former NAF Deputy Director of Sports and current Deputy Director of Logistics at the Defence Headquarters, received accolades for his exemplary act that showcased the dedication of the Nigerian Air Force to ensuring the safety and security of the public.
Edward Gabkwet
Air Vice Marshal
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigeria Air Force
17 February 2024
