Ozekhome - Kidnappers Release Ugbome, May Free Human Rights Lawyer Today

There are indications that human rights lawyer, Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, who has been in kidnappers' den these past two weeks may regain his freedom today, following what Vanguard learnt were positive discussions between the kidnappers and the family.

Hopes of his imminent release rose, following the kidnappers' release of the chieftain of All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr. Athanasius Ugbome, who was abducted with him. Ugbome regained his freedom at 1am, yesterday, less than 14 hours after the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Funso Adebanjo and his counterpart in Delta State, Ikechukwu Aduba reportedly mapped out strategies to secure the victims' release.


Though a private radio station monitored in Benin, had reported that Ozekhome had been released, Vanguard, however, learnt that the original plan was to secure the release of all those that were abducted on the Benin-Auchi Road, on August 23 on the same day.

It was further learnt that there were disagreements between the kidnappers and the family as regards the payment of ransom.

While it can be confirmed that Ugbome was released, yesterday, uncertainty continues to surround that of Ozekhome, who, it was learnt is hale and hearty. There was jubilation in Benin City and his Oviukwe community, when it was rumoured that he had been released, but the jubilation was cut short when residents of Benin only sighted Ugbome while Ozekhome was not with him.

Confirming Ugbome's release, his elder brother Paschal, in a short message, said: "Praise be to God, he has been released."

Sources at the Edo State Police Command also confirmed the release of Ugbome, adding: "We are also expecting the release of Ozekhome any moment from now. Like we said earlier, we want him released unhurt and that we are working on."

Meanwhile, anxiety has continued to mount in Iviukwe, Agenebode, as members of the community continued their fasting and prayers for the release of their son.

Vanguard was informed that discussions between the family and the kidnappers had been fruitful and he may be freed today. The state CP, Mr Adebanjo, when contacted, said: "This is a security matter; that is all I can tell you. Like I said earlier, we will ensure that all of them are freed unhurt."

 Vanguard