The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Police Command has debunked earlier reports thay former Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, David Shikfu Parradang, was killed kidnappers after he was abducted.
Earlier on Tuesday, there were reports on social media that the Plateau State-born Paradang was murdered by kidnappers even after a ransom was paid by his family.
While the rumours spread with many Nigerians believing them, the police came out with a statement later in the day, saying the deceased died inside a hotel room in Abuja after receiving a female guest at the hotel he checked into in Abuja.
In a statement issued by the FCT Command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, the dismissed reports that Paradang was kidnapped and killed by his abductors.
The statement titled “Police respond to misreported death of retired Comptroller General David Paradang” reads thus:
“In light of the recent reports alleging that retired Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, David Shikfu Paradang, 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. Paradang 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. Paradang 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. Paradang 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. Paradang’s death. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to ensure justice is served.”
Paradang, who served in the NIS for over 30 years, held various positions across the country, including Comptroller General.
He served in Kano, Lagos, Kwara, Enugu, and the Federal Capital Territory. He also attended several professional courses both within Nigeria and internationally.
Upon his retirement, he went into politics and in 2019, contested for the Plateau Central senatorial zone seat on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) but lost to the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In 2023, he was an aspirant for the governorship position but lost out to incumbent Gov. Caleb Mutfwang.
