From Ebohon Joan
The Edo State Government has launched an urgent security operation following the abduction of a 90-year-old man, Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwen, by suspected kidnappers.
The state government said Governor Monday Okpebholo had ordered security agencies to combine efforts and use all lawful means at their disposal to locate the elderly man and secure his release within 24 hours.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over the activities of kidnappers in the state, with the government describing the victim’s age as particularly disturbing.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, in a statement, appealed to residents to provide useful information that could help investigators track down the abductors and locate the victim.
The government also cautioned against politicising the incident or circulating claims linking the administration to the abduction without evidence. It said such speculation could interfere with the ongoing security operation.
The development comes days after four kidnappers were handed death sentences by Edo’s Special Court for kidnapping-related offences involving murder and abduction. The government said the convictions demonstrated its determination to deal firmly with criminal elements operating in the state.
Despite the latest incident, the administration maintained that it would not be deterred in its efforts to tackle insecurity.
Governor Okpebholo, according to the statement, said Edo would not be allowed to become a refuge for kidnappers and other criminals. The government said security agencies would continue to pursue criminal networks and ensure that those responsible for the abduction are arrested and prosecuted.
The state also reassured Pa Joseph’s family that significant resources were being deployed to bring the situation to a safe conclusion.
Residents with information about the victim’s whereabouts or the identity and activities of the abductors have been urged to promptly contact the relevant security authorities.
