Makurdi, Nigeria
Matthew Abo, Benue State commissioner for information, culture, and tourism, has regained his freedom after spending ten days with his abductors.
Chief press secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula confirmed the development in a statement on Thursday.
According to Kula, the commissioner has since reunited with his family in Sankera, Ukum Local Government, where he was abducted, Kula said.
He added that the commissioner was released on an order by Governor Hyacinth Alia who instructed security agents to exert intense pressure on kidnappers to secure his release.
He further stated that no ransom or monetary exchange was involved in securing the release of the commissioner.
However, the statement noted that former Chairman of Ukum local government area (LGA), Washima Erukaa and his cousin who it was learnt discreetly went to negotiate with the kidnappers and was also kidnapped are still in custody of the criminal.
The governor has issued a strong warning to criminals, stating that criminal activities would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The governor commended the security personnel for the feat and ordered them to keep up their efforts to free the other prisoners.
He instructed the security personnel to be brutal with criminals and make sure they are unable to operate within the state.
Abo was kidnapped by gunmen in his Sankara home at about 8 pm on September 24, 2023.
