The traditional ruler of Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River, Etiyin Maurice Edet, was kidnapped by armed assailants at his home on Sunday night in the council area.
Report state that during the kidnapping, an aide to the traditional ruler was fatally shot.
The state Police Command spokesperson, SP Irene Ugbo, confirmed the incident but stated that details were unavailable at the time of the press.
According to a source, the traditional ruler’s aide was killed while attempting to prevent his principal from being abducted.
Akpabuyo, known for its high incidence of criminal activities, is located less than 15 kilometers from Calabar, the state capital.
Meanwhile, Professor Patrick Egaga from the University of Calabar (Unical) has been freed by his captors after spending 26 days in captivity.
Egaga, the Director of Servicom at Unical, was kidnapped from the staff quarters of the institution, with his captors demanding a ransom of N50 million.
Reports state that Calabar and its environs have witnessed increase in cases of abduction in the past few months.
The victims often include lecturers, lawyers, medical doctors, clergymen, and other high-profile individuals.