Abbas Yusha’u Yusuf, Kano
A group of journalists from Kano State narrowly escaped a potentially dangerous situation in a forest in Kogi State, thanks to the timely intervention of a young man identified simply as Emmanuel.
The incident occurred in October 2018 when members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) travelled from Kano to Abeokuta, Ogun State, to participate in the union’s national election.
The journey, which covered several states, was already challenging due to the long distance and road conditions. After attending the election held at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, the Kano delegates began their return trip the following day.
However, the situation took a dramatic turn when their driver missed the correct route while travelling through parts of Ondo and Ekiti states, unknowingly heading toward a remote forest area instead of the intended path through Edo State to Okene.
Read Also:
Why Tarauni Remains a Pillar of Kano’s Metropolitan Development
Lere: A Historic Fulani Settlement and Cultural Crossroads in Kaduna
Birnin Kudu: An Ancient Settlement With a Modern National Footprint
Sensing danger after noticing the absence of oncoming vehicles, the passengers raised concerns and decided to retrace their route to a military checkpoint, where they sought guidance.
At the checkpoint, a young man, Emmanuel, was assigned to guide the delegation through a safer route. He led the way in his pick-up van as the group followed behind.
As the journey progressed, the terrain became increasingly difficult, and darkness set in. The situation worsened when the bus conveying about 20 passengers became stuck in a ditch deep within the forest.
Stranded in the middle of the forest at night, with no nearby settlement, the journalists attempted unsuccessfully to free the vehicle, raising fears for their safety.
Emmanuel, however, stepped in to assist. Using a rope from his vehicle, he tied it to the stranded bus and attempted to pull it out. Despite multiple setbacks, including the rope snapping several times, he persisted until the bus was successfully freed.
During the rescue effort, Emmanuel informed the group that they had veered into the Ayere forest axis in Kogi State, an area reportedly known for criminal activities.
After navigating through the difficult terrain, the group eventually reached Ijumu Local Government Area, where they encountered signs of habitation and regained a sense of safety.
They later proceeded to Kabba, where they spent the night before continuing their journey back to Kano the following day after fixing their vehicle.
Subsequent reports indicated that the forest area where the journalists were stranded is often described as a hideout for kidnappers and armed robbers.
The experience highlighted the risks associated with road travel in parts of Nigeria, particularly in remote areas with poor navigation and security challenges.
The journalists expressed gratitude for their safe rescue, attributing it largely to Emmanuel’s courage and timely assistance.