Former Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), David Shikfu Parradang, has been killed allegedly by kidnappers after being abducted in Abuja.
According to counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, Parradang was kidnapped in the Area 1 axis of Abuja in the early hours of Tuesday. The assailants, who had trailed him from a bank where he withdrew money, took the cash before eventually kiling him.
“The tragic incident has raised fresh concerns over security in the Federal Capital Territory, particularly regarding the increasing cases of kidnappings and targeted attacks,” Makama said.
Parradang served in the NIS for over 30 years, holding various positions across Nigeria, including in Kano, Lagos, Kwara, Enugu, and Abuja. He was a recipient of the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) and a distinguished graduate of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).
Security agencies have reportedly launched an investigation into his abduction and killing, with efforts underway to apprehend those responsible.
While the Nigerian Immigration Service has yet to issue an official statement, an official at its headquarters in Abuja confirmed the incident. “The report is true, but we need to wait for Immigration authorities to make an official publication,” he said.
However, a statement on Tuesday evening by the Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the FCT Police Command, Abuja, SP Josephine Adeh, said: “In light of the recent reports alleging that retired Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, David Shikfu Parradang, was kidnapped and subsequently killed, we wish to clarify the facts surrounding this incident to ensure accurate information is disseminated to the public.
“On March 3, 2025, at approximately 12:00 PM, Mr. Parradang arrived at Joy House Hotel, Area 3 Junction, driving a black Mercedes Benz. He checked into the hotel, paying a sum of Twenty two thousand naira (N22,000) for one night’s stay. Shortly thereafter, he directed the hotel room attendant to escort a female guest who had come to visit to his room. This lady left the hotel premises around 04:00PM of the same day.
“Mr. Parradang did not exit his room after the lady left. Around 04:00 AM of 04 March 2025, a friend who is a military officer, concerned for his wellbeing, traced him to the hotel. Upon arrival, the hotel receptionist and the officer proceeded to his room, where Mr. Parradang was found deceased, seated in a chair.
“The Durumi Police Station was notified and officers promptly arrived at the scene, secured the area, took photographs, and collected all relevant evidence to preserve the integrity of the crime scene. The body has been transferred to the National Hospital for necessary procedures, and hotel staff are currently cooperating with Police investigations.
“Effort is in top gear to effect the arrest of the lady.
“We urge the public and media outlets to refrain from spreading unverified information, including claims of kidnapping, that may incite fear or panic. The FCT Police Command is committed to conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding Mr. Parradang’s death. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to ensure justice is served.”