Benue State Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Mr. Mathew Abo, has been freed after enduring a harrowing 10-day ordeal in the clutches of his captors.
This welcome news was officially confirmed by Sir Tersoo Kula, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, and marks a significant turn of events in the high-profile kidnapping case.
The incident unfolded on Sunday, September 24, 2023, when Mr. Abo was abducted from his residence in Zaki-Biamby armed men while with his family members and associates sending shockwaves throughout the region.
In a surprising turn of events, Mr. Abo regained his freedom in the early hours of Thursday, having spent over a week in captivity. The circumstances surrounding his release, as revealed in an official statement, have left many astounded. According to the statement, no ransom or monetary transactions were involved in securing Mr. Abo’s release.
“No ransom or any other monetary exchanges were involved in securing his release. Rather, his release was 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, the statement read.
“However, the criminals are still in the custody of the former Chairman, Ukum LGA, Mr. Washima Erukaa and his cousin who it was learned 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 added.
In addition to the governor’s statement, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Sewuese Anene, also confirmed the Commissioner’s release, bringing further relief to the public and authorities alike.
This development marks a significant victory for the security forces and sends a strong message to criminals that the state remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
