The abducted caretaker chairman of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Zacchaeus Michael, has been released by his abductors.

The Star had reported that the chairman was kidnapped alongside some of his aides on Friday night.

The victims were said to have been abducted on the Kabba-Okene expressway in Kabba, Kogi State.

The incident was confirmed by the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya, on Saturday, August 3, 2024.

However, the Owe Polítical Forum in the state announced Michael’s release via a statement issued on Saturday.

The Forum added that the chairman’s aides have yet to regain freedom from captivity.

It noted: “We are pleased to share that the CTC Chairman, who was abducted by unknown assailants on the Kabba-Okene expressway on Friday, August 2, 2024, has been safely released.

Gunmen kidnap Kogi LG chairman, aides

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to God for his safe return. We also want to express our sincere thanks to all members for their prayers and support throughout this ordeal. Your unwavering commitment and the dedicated efforts of the security forces were crucial in ensuring his release.

“We continue to pray for the swift and safe release of his aides, asking that they be returned without harm as soon as possible.”

Also confirming the chairman’s release, the police spokesman said:  “I can confirm that the chairman graciously escaped from kidnappers in the early hours of Saturday.

“Our Divisional Police Officer in Kabba has confirmed that to me.

“It’s the work of God that the chairman was able to escape from his abductors. We give God the glory that he has returned to his family hale and hearty.

“All the same, our officers and men are already trailing the kidnappers to arrest them and rescue other people in their possessions.”

The Star