Gunmen entered the Pushit community of Mangu Local Government Area in Plateau State on the night of 19 October 2026, seized a well‑known businessman identified as Gilbert, and shot Deputy Superintendent Distu Garba Audu of the [Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)](https://www.nscdc.gov.ng) as he rode out of his home. The attack occurred despite a curfew that had been imposed in the area, prompting local activists to demand answers from authorities.
**What transpired on the night of the abduction?**
- At approximately 8:00 p.m., suspected kidnappers arrived in Pushit and forcibly took Gilbert, who supplies fuel, cement and fertiliser to local filling stations.
- While the kidnappers were moving the businessman, a motorcyclist left his house with his headlight on to purchase meat. The gunmen opened fire, killing the rider on the spot.
- The deceased rider was later identified as Distu Garba Audu, popularly called “Tony”, a Deputy Superintendent in the [NSCDC](https://www.nscdc.gov.ng) and a senior officer who owned a house in the community.
- Contrary to early reports, Audu was not killed while guarding the abducted businessman; he was shot after unexpectedly encountering the kidnappers while riding away from his residence.
**Why is the curfew being questioned?**
Activist John Walshak, who reported the incident, argued that the curfew failed to protect residents when both a prominent trader and a senior security officer were targeted. He urged the state government and security agencies to clarify the measures being taken to prevent further kidnappings, safeguard civilians, and apprehend the perpetrators.
**What actions are being called for?**
Walshak appealed for an urgent investigation to establish the facts surrounding the killing and abduction, to pursue the gunmen, and to work toward the safe rescue of Gilbert. He also encouraged community members to stay vigilant, provide reliable information to authorities, and avoid spreading unverified rumors.
**Background on the region**
Plateau State has experienced a series of security challenges, including banditry and kidnapping, prompting authorities to impose curfews in vulnerable communities such as those in the [Mangu Local Government Area](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mangu,_Plateau). Critics argue that curfews alone are insufficient without robust on‑the‑ground security operations.
The incident underscores ongoing concerns about law‑and‑order in the state and highlights the need for coordinated responses from both government and security agencies to protect lives and restore public confidence.