After nearly two weeks in captivity, Bayelsa State High Court Judge, Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, has regained his freedom.
Bellnews reports that his release came after intense pressure from a joint security operation led by the Commander of Operation Puff Adder, CSP Chris Nwaogbo.
The judge, who was abducted 13 days ago, was rescued without the payment of ransom, despite an earlier demand of ₦300 million in foreign currency by his captors.
Security sources who spoke with Vanguard revealed that the kidnappers were traced to the Ekeremor axis of the state, where the judge hails from.
The turning point, it was gathered, came when some of Justice Omukoro’s relatives reportedly reached out directly to the families of the abductors, threatening dire consequences if he wasn’t released.
Announcing the development on Thursday night, the State Director of the DSS, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, and the State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, confirmed that the judge was rescued unhurt.
Speaking at the DSS headquarters shortly after his rescue, Justice Omukoro, visibly exhausted and clad in a grey sweater, described the experience as traumatic.
He said, “I was confused in the kidnappers’ den. I still could not come to terms with the fact that I was kidnapped and kept in the forest and exposed to cold.
“The kidnappers told me I should have fallen critically ill. I thank God I was rescued alive. I will always testify to His goodness.”
President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Daniel Ayah, praised the synergy between the judiciary, security agencies, and the state government, adding that three major suspects had already been arrested while three others remain at large.
Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, reiterated that the successful operation was the result of a well-coordinated effort by all security arms in the state.
Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association in Bayelsa, Barrister Clement Kekemeke, lauded members of the judiciary and legal practitioners for their restraint and unity throughout the ordeal.
“We embarked on court boycott and downed tools. Everyone played their role and it tells us that in times of trouble, we should be united,” he said.
Also speaking, the State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, hailed the operation as a major win for the state’s security efforts.
He said, “It is a triumph that the security agencies are working harmoniously with the state government. Bayelsa has invested so much in security.”