Two senior officials of the Oke-Ero Local Government Area of Kwara State, who were kidnapped last Friday, have regained their freedom, the council chairman, James Fadipe, announced on Monday.
According to The PUNCH, Alhaji Musibau Amuda, the Director of Personnel Management, and Mrs. Omoladun Elizabeth Arinde, the Legal Officer, were abducted while traveling from Iloffa, the local government headquarters, to Ilorin, the state capital.
In a statement made available to journalists, Fadipe expressed gratitude for their safe return, saying, “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Almighty God for His mercy and protection over our dear officials who have returned safely in good health. Indeed, this is the Lord’s doing, and we are filled with joy and thanksgiving.”
The circumstances surrounding their release were not disclosed. However, Fadipe thanked Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, security operatives, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the leadership of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) for their support during the ordeal.
“We are deeply grateful to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq CON, the leadership of ALGON, religious leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies, political leaders, and all well-wishers who stood by us in prayer and encouragement,” the chairman said.
The Kwara State Police Command had earlier confirmed that the kidnapping took place around Eleyin village, via Isanlu-Isin, where five armed men intercepted two vehicles — a Honda and a Toyota — and abducted all seven occupants. While two victims, including the LG officials, have been rescued, police operations are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining five.
Speaking on Monday, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, stated, “Our rescue efforts continue in earnest, and we remain committed to apprehending the perpetrators of this crime.”
Fadipe, while rejoicing over the release of the officials, called for continued prayers for peace, unity, and progress in the local government. “We remain committed to serving our people and working together for the continued development of Oke-Ero,” he added.
