Kidnapped Benue Commissioner Regains Freedom

Benue State commissioner for information, culture and tourism, Mathew Abo, who was abducted at his residence in Zaki-Biam on Sunday, September 24, 2023, has regained his freedom.

Sources said his abductors released him in the early hours of yesterday and that he has already reunited with his family.

The sources which did not state whether the N60 million ransom demanded by the kidnappers was paid, did not say whether the commissioner returned in good health.

Abo spent 10 days in captivity before he was freed yesterday.

His release could be attributed to intensified security operations, spirited negotiations as well as sustained prayers by individuals and groups, including staff of the Benue State Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism who mounted concerted prayer sessions for the safe release of their principal.

Benue State governor Hyacinth Alia who condemned the abduction also directed the security agencies to ensure the release of the commissioner.

The gunmen came on four Bajaaj motorcycles, ordered everyone in the house, including the commissioner’s wife and children to lie face down and took him away to an unknown destination on one of the motorcycles.

The abduction took place at 8 pm on Sunday, 24th September, 2023.

Abo was sworn in as a member of the Benue State Executive Council on August 29, 2023.