Ten days after the Benue state Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Mathew Abo, was kidnapped at his residence in Zaki-Biam, he has been released by his abductors.
The commissioner was abducted around 8 pm on Sunday, September 24, 2023 at his home town Zaki Biam Ukum local government area of the state.
Impeccable sources disclosed that his abductors released him in the early hours of Thursday and has already reunited with his family.
The sources which did not state whether the N60 million or any money demanded as ransom was paid or not, said the commissioner returned in good health.
His release could be attributed to intensified security operations, spirited negotiations, as well as prayers by individuals and groups.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, who condemned the abduction, also directed the security agencies to ensure the release of the commissioner.
The commissioner in a statement he personally signed made available to journalists in Makurdi, expressed gratitude to God, Governor Hyacinth Alia, his colleagues, security agencies and others for his release from 10 days of captivity.
“I appreciate all the efforts and prayers that have culminated in my safe release and reunion with my family and society.
“I wish that my ordeal will lead to renewed efforts to tackle both internal and external security challenges in the state and I call for the cooperation of everyone in the task ahead.
“I particularly express appreciation to the entire staff of my ministry and its parastatals as well as others within and outside the state for the unrelenting prayers and I enjoin them to continue to pray for my success and that of the entire Alia Administration,” he stated.
Benue commissioner regains freedom after 10 days in kidnappers’ den
