After 10 days in captivity, the Benue State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mathew Abo, has regained his freedom.
It was gathered that Abo’s abductors released him in the early hours of Thursday, and he has already reunited with his family.
It was not immediately stated if the N60 million demanded by his abductors was paid before his release.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner, who confirmed his release Thursday in a statement he signed, thanked Governor Hyacinth Alia, the security agencies, and his colleagues for ensuring that he regained his freedom.
While reiterating that his ordeal would not deter him from serving the state, Abo said, “I appreciate all the efforts and prayers that have culminated in my safe release and reunion with my family and society. May I assure you that I remain determined more than ever to effectively utilise the platform that Governor Alia has offered me to serve the people of the state, as a member of the Benue State Executive Council with renewed vigour.
I particularly express my 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.”
Recall that Abo was abducted on Sunday, September 24th, at about 8 p.m. at his Zaki Biam residence, in the Ukum Local Government Area of the state.
(Editor: Ifeanyi Mark)
