Kidnapped Bayelsa Judge, Omukoro, regains freedom
Bayelsa State High Court Judge, RT. Hon. Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, has regained freedom after 13 days in captivity.
Though he was released from the kidnappers’ den without payment of ransom, his abductors had last Saturday demanded N300 million in foreign currency for his release.
The release of the judge followed days of joint police tactical operations led by the Commander of the Operation Puff Adder, CSP Chris Nwaogbo.
It was also gathered that a few of the suspected kidnappers involved in the abduction were identified and traced to the Ekeremor axis of the state, where the abducted Judge hails from.
According to security sources, some of the victim’s relatives reached out to families of his abductors and threatened fire and brimstone if he is not released with immediate effect.
But the State Director of the DSS, Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi and the State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, announced on Thursday night that the abducted Judge was released without ransom and rescued unhurt.
Justice Omukoro, clad in a grey colour sweater, who looked tired, expressed appreciation to everyone who participated in his rescue efforts, describing the last 13 days as “confusing”
He said he was becoming confused in the kidnapper’s den. “I was confused in the kidnappers’ den. I was beginning to get confused. I still could not come to terms with the fact that I was kidnapped and kept in the forest and exposed to cold. I thank God I was rescued alive.
“I cannot thank God enough. It will always be an unforgettable experience for me. I thank God I came out unhurt.
“The kidnappers told me I should have fallen critically ill. I was subjected to cold. I prayed to God that if I come out, I will testify to His goodness.”
Speaking at the State headquarters of the DSS, the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Daniel Ayah, said the rescue of Justice Omukoro is a collective effort of the security agencies, the Judiciary and the State Government.
Justice Ayah pointed out that the Chief Judge of the State was disturbed by the kidnapping incident.
He confirmed that three major suspects were arrested in connection with the judge’s abduction and that the police have identified three key suspects who are still at large.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Francis Idu, said the joint efforts of the security agencies are bound together towards the rescue of the abducted judge.
The State Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Barr. Clement Kekemeke, commended the men of the judiciary and the bar for their calmness and composure during the judge’s incarceration.
“We embarked on court boycott and down tools. Everyone played their role and it tells us that in times of trouble, we should be united,” he said.
A security source also disclosed that four key suspects have been identified over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping of the judge.
The State Commissioner of Information, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, expressed joy at the release of the abducted judge, saying the safe release of the judge has vindicated the state government and affirmed the state as a haven.
“It is a triumph that the security agencies are working harmoniously with the state government. Bayelsa has invested so much in security,” she said.
