By Sarah Sam Adda
A retired Customs officer, Emmanuel Owolabi, has regained his freedom after his family and community paid an undisclosed ransom to his abductors.
His release was confirmed on Tuesday by former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines and Asiwaju of Ora Igbomina, Dr Yemi Farounbi. Sources said Owolabi was freed late on Monday and located in a forest around Oro Ago in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Owolabi was abducted on December 15 when gunmen attacked Ora, a border community between Osun and Kwara states, and seized him outside his home on Akisa Road. During the attack, the assailants reportedly killed a village chief, identified as Dennis.
The abductors were said to have initially demanded N200 million but later released the victim after negotiations.
Farounbi thanked Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, security agencies and community leaders for their support, stressing the importance of collective action in tackling insecurity in boundary areas.
