The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the release of Benedict Akika, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and close ally of Governor Seyi Makinde, who was kidnapped from his residence by gunmen.
The police spokesperson, Adéwálé Osifeso, announced Akika’s release on Wednesday after he was held captive by his abductors.
OsunDailyNG recall that Akika was kidnapped from his home in Idi Ape, Olorunda-Aba, located in Lagelu Local Government Area, on September 4, 2024, by armed men who had covered their faces to conceal their identities.
Following an extensive search operation by the command’s tactical intelligence team, which spanned forests in Ijagun, Ijebu Ode (Ogun State), Ore (Ondo State), and Uselu (Edo State), the police were able to secure his release. Akika is currently receiving medical treatment before reuniting with his family.
In a statement released to the public, the police highlighted the intensity of the search and rescue mission, which involved combing through vast areas and leveraging intelligence assets.
The command also assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the kidnappers responsible for the crime.
The statement read in part: “The politician was freed from his captors after days of intensive manhunt by the command’s tactical, intelligence, and operational assets, strategically extending the search and rescue mission by combing adjoining forests across Ijagun, Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, Ore, Ondo State, and lastly Uselu in Edo State.
“The victim, who regained his freedom late evening on Wednesday, September 9, 2024. is currently undergoing medical intervention before his final reunion with his loved ones. Efforts are currently in top gear to apprehend the criminal network responsible for the reprehensible act.
“While appealing to residents of the state to assist the ongoing investigation by providing timely and credible information to the police, the Oyo State Police Command re-affirms its resolve to ensure that Oyo State is not turned into a playground for the sinister-minded.”
