LAGOS – Chief Benedict Akika has been released after being abducted for about a week as a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State.
Oyo Police Command stated that an extensive search for the abductors will persist.
Akika was taken by unidentified gunmen at his residence in Olorunda Aba on September 4 around 9:30 pm.
As of the time of submitting this report, Akika, who reportedly regained his freedom late Wednesday evening, is currently undergoing medical treatment before reuniting with his family.
Confirming his release, the Oyo police spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, stated that the politician was liberated from his abductors following an extensive search by the Command’s tactical, intelligence, and operational units.
According to him, the Police team is strategically expanding the search and rescue operation by thoroughly searching the neighboring forests in Ijagun, Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, Ore in Ondo State, and Uselu in Edo State.
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The Police have requested residents’ assistance in the ongoing investigation by providing prompt and credible information to the authorities. They emphasized the Command’s commitment to preventing the state from becoming a playground for those with malicious intentions.
Osifeso mentioned, “The Oyo State Police Command is pleased to announce the release of Chief Benedict Akiika, a prominent political figure in Oyo state who was abducted from his Idi-Ape residence, Olorunda Aaba on 04/09/24 by 2130Hrs.
“The politician was rescued from his captors after an extensive manhunt conducted by the Command’s tactical, intelligence, and operational units, strategically expanding the search and rescue operation by combing neighboring forests in Ijagun, Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, Ore in Ondo State, and finally Uselu in Edo State.”
“The individual, who was freed late on the evening of Wednesday, 11/09/2024, is currently receiving medical treatment before reuniting with his family.
“Efforts are actively underway to capture the criminal network responsible for this despicable act.
“While urging residents to assist the ongoing investigation by providing prompt and credible information to the Police, the Oyo State Police Command reiterates its commitment to preventing Oyo state from becoming a haven for those with malicious intent.”
