Mr. Takai Shamang, a former President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has reportedly been kidnapped from his hometown of Biniki in Kaduna State’s Kaura Local Government Area.
According to his daughter, Mrs. Grace Abbin, the 78-year-old Shamang was taken from his residence in Biniki around 8:00pm last Friday. She confirmed the incident to NAN on Sunday.
Shamang has a distinguished career, having served as the President General of the National Union of Electricity and Gas Workers (now National Union of Electricity Employees) from 1982 to 1989. He is also known for his role as the President and Founder of Gantys Aid for Widows, Orphans and Needy Foundation, widely recognized as GAWON Foundation.
The abduction of such a prominent figure has sparked concerns and raised questions about security in the region. Kaduna State, like many parts of Nigeria, has faced challenges with incidents of kidnapping and violence in recent years.
The community of Biniki and beyond is in shock over the incident. Local leaders and residents have expressed their worries and called for swift action from security agencies to ensure Shamang’s safe return.
“We are deeply troubled by the abduction of Mr. Takai Shamang. He has been a pillar in our community and has dedicated his life to serving others through his foundation,” said a local community leader who preferred to remain anonymous.
Shamang’s contributions to the labour movement in Nigeria are also widely acknowledged. During his tenure as President of the NLC and later as a union leader in the electricity sector, he advocated for workers’ rights and welfare.
“He was instrumental in advancing the rights of workers during his time leading the NLC. His dedication to improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians has left a lasting impact,” remarked a former colleague from the labour movement.
The GAWON Foundation, under Shamang’s leadership, has been instrumental in providing support to widows, orphans, and the less privileged across Kaduna State. The foundation’s initiatives have included educational scholarships, healthcare programs, and empowerment projects aimed at improving the livelihoods of vulnerable groups.
“Mr. Shamang’s abduction is not just an attack on him personally, but on the values of compassion and service that GAWON Foundation represents,” stated a member of the foundation’s board of trustees.
Authorities in Kaduna State have assured the public that efforts are underway to secure Shamang’s release and apprehend those responsible for his abduction. The Kaduna State Police Command has urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure Mr. Takai Shamang returns home safely. His family and the entire community can rest assured that we are doing everything possible to resolve this situation,” assured the Commissioner of Police in Kaduna State.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from across Nigeria, with calls for enhanced security measures to curb the rising cases of kidnapping in the country. Civil society groups and political leaders have called for urgent action to address the insecurity challenges facing the nation.
“We cannot continue to live in fear of kidnappings and violence. The government must take decisive steps to protect its citizens and restore confidence in our security institutions,” urged a prominent activist during a recent protest in Abuja.
As the search for Mr. Takai Shamang continues, his family, friends, and supporters remain hopeful for his safe return. The incident has underscored the need for concerted efforts to improve security across Nigeria and ensure the safety of all citizens, particularly vulnerable groups like the elderly and community leaders.
“We are praying for Mr. Shamang’s safe return. His abduction has deeply affected our community, but we remain united in our resolve to see him reunited with his family soon,” said a close family friend.
The abduction of Mr. Takai Shamang has highlighted the vulnerability of public figures and the urgent need for effective security measures to safeguard lives and property in Nigeria. As efforts to secure his release intensify, the nation watches closely, hoping for a swift and positive resolution to this distressing ordeal.
