The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the release of Benedict Akika, a prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, who was abducted from his residence in Idi Ape, Olorunda-Aba, Lagelu Local Government Area, Oyo State, on September 4, 2024.
The police spokesperson, Adéwálé Osifeso, announced that Akika was freed on Wednesday after an intensive manhunt led by the command’s tactical intelligence team. The operation spanned multiple states, including Ogun, Ondo, and Edo, with law enforcement officers combing through adjoining forests in search of the abducted politician.
According to a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Thursday, Akika was safely rescued and is currently undergoing medical evaluation before being reunited with his family.
“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 statement read.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the criminal network responsible for the kidnapping. The Oyo State Police Command has urged residents to support the investigation by providing timely and credible information, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the state remains safe and secure.
Benedict Akika is known as a close ally of Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.
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