Benue state Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Hon. Matthew Abo, has regained his freedom 10 days after being kidnapped in his home town in Ukum Local Government Area.
Governor Hyacinth Alia’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula confirmed Abo’s release from captivity in a statement on Thursday. He said no ransom was paid to secure his freedom.
Gunmen had on Sunday, 24th September invaded the commissioner’s country home in Zaki Biam around 8:00 pm.
According to Tersoo, Mr Abo has since reunited with his family in Ukum Local Government where he was abducted.
“No ransom or any other monetary exchanges were involved in securing his release. Rather, his release was as a result of intense pressure on the criminals from the gallant security operatives who were acting on the directives of Gov. Hyacinth Alia, who had earlier given marching orders to them to ensure Mr. Abo’s release.
“However, the criminals are still in custody of the former Chairman, Ukum LGA, Mr. Washima Erukaa and his cousin who it was learnt discreetly went to negotiate with the kidnappers and was also kidnapped.
“His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, who has welcomed back the Commissioner, has warned criminals operating within the State to leave for good, insisting that they will not be tolerated in any form,” the statement reads.
It was reported in September that the commissioner was at home with his family members when the gunmen came on four motorcycles and found their way into his living room.
“Yes he was kidnapped. Unfortunately, he was kidnapped in his country home in Ukum LGA, around 8pm on, Sunday, September 24, 2023.
“He was home with his family, children and his people when the armed men came in. They forced him to a bike. We received the unfortunate development and His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Alia has already directed and detailed the security operatives to ensure his safe release from the kidnappers’ den.”
