Two senior officials of the Oke Ero Local Government Area in Kwara State, Barrister Elizabeth Arinde, Head of the Legal Department, and Alhaji Musibau Amuda, Director of Personnel Management, have regained their freedom after being abducted by unknown gunmen.
The news of their safe return was disclosed on Monday in an official statement issued by the Executive Chairman of Oke Ero Local Government, Hon. James Abiodun Fadipe.
Sharing his joy, Fadipe described the officials’ release as “the Lord’s doing,” and extended his gratitude to God and everyone who supported the local government during the ordeal.
The statement, titled ‘Appreciation and Gratitude Message’, read, “On behalf of the Executive Chairman of Oke Ero Local Government, Hon. James Abiodun Fadipe, we extend our heartfelt appreciation and sincere gratitude to the Almighty God for His mercy and protection over our dear Director of Personnel Management, Alhaji Musibau Amuda, and the Local Government Legal Officer, Barrister Omoladun Elizabeth Arinde, who have safely returned to us in good health. This is indeed the Lord’s doing, and we are filled with joy and thanksgiving.”
Fadipe further acknowledged the critical role played by the state government and other stakeholders during the difficult time, saying, “We are deeply grateful to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman CON, and the leadership of ALGON for their steadfast support during this challenging period.”
He continued, “We also express our profound thanks to religious leaders, traditional rulers, security operatives, political leaders, party men and women, DPM and LGT forums, and all well-wishers who stood by us in prayer, encouragement, and action.”
He offered prayers for continued peace and success, “May the Almighty God continue to bless you all abundantly. We remain committed to working together for the continued peace, progress, and development of our local government. In this moment of joy, we offer prayers for continued protection and success for all. May God grant us peace, unity, and progress as we continue to serve our people. Once again, thank you all for your invaluable support.”
Barrister Arinde was earlier reported missing after she and the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Local Government were abducted on Friday, April 25, 2025, while traveling from Oke Ero to Ilorin.
The Nigerian Bar Association in a statement signed by the Chairman of the NBA Ilorin Branch, S.M.H. Kosemani Esq, had earlier raised the alarm over her abduction.
The NBA’s statement read, “We are deeply concerned to inform you that Barrister Elizabeth Arinde, Head of the Legal Department at Oke Ero Local Government in Kwara State, has been kidnapped.”
