By Uche Amunike
The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Edo State, Tony Aziegbemi, who was abducted by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers, on Friday, along Idaro Street, Off Country Home Road, Benin, Edo State, is still in the den of his captors.
Aziegbemi, who reportedly left a meeting at the Edo State Government House, was heading home in his vehicle when he was abducted, as his driver was attempting to climb a speed breaker.
His driver gave this narrative concerning the abduction: ‘When we left the Government House heading home at about 11 pm, I noticed a car trailing us so I decided to take another diversion. We never knew they were kidnappers.’
‘A few minutes later, the same cars appeared behind us at a speed breaker and blocked our car in the front and also behind as they prevented us from going back. Immediately the gunmen pointed guns at us and ordered our chairman to enter their car and took him away, while also driving his jeep with him.’
According to him, his captors abandoned his boss’s car along Sapele Road and drove off with him in their own car.
The incident was confirmed by the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, who stated that the case fell under the jurisdiction of the New Etete Police Division which is also known as Godwin Abbe Police Station where it happened.
He also stated police commissioner has given a marching order to the tactical teams of operatives to fish out the gunmen, while praying that the abducted Tony Aziegbemi would be rescued unhurt.
The Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare on his part has assured that security measures are in place, as well as enough surveillance, in order to ensure that the culprits that perpetrated his abduction are brought to book.
His words: ‘We have also increased surveillance and beefed up security measures across the state to ensure that these criminal activities are quelled and culprits are brought to justice.’
‘We encourage residents to go about their lawful businesses without fear and urge them to call the state emergency numbers 112 or 739 to report all suspicious persons or activities within their environs.’
‘The government reassures that it is committed to protecting the lives and property of Edo residents and will spare no resources in ensuring that the perpetrators of this dastardly act are apprehended and made to face the full wrath of the law.’
PDP guber candidate, Asue Ighodaro, on his part, has condemned the abduction of Azeigbemi, describing it as shocking and distressing. Speaking, through a statement, he called on security agencies to investigate the abduction and secure the release of the victim. His words: ‘I strongly condemn this dastardly act, and my heart goes out to the Aziegbemi family at this very trying time. I join the family in offering fervent prayers for his safe return.’
‘I also urge the security agencies to continue to spare no effort in investigating the matter and working assiduously for our dear party chairman’s safe release.’
