Unknown gunmen have reportedly kidnapped Zacheous Michael, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Kabba Bunu Local Government Area in Kogi State.
Police Public Relations Officer William Ayah confirmed that Michael and some of his aides were abducted on Friday night along the Kabba/Okene road.
Ayah stated that Commissioner of Police Bethrand Onuoha has dispatched officers for a search and rescue mission, assuring that the police will do everything possible to secure the release of Michael and his aides.
There has been no information on whether a ransom has been demanded.
The incident may be linked to the upcoming council elections scheduled for October 19, as Michael is the sole candidate for the All Progressive Congress (APC) for Kabba Local Government.
Another theory is that his earlier efforts to combat kidnappers in his local government might have led to his abduction.
However, in an update on Saturday, Ayah informed Channels Television that Michael had escaped from his captors while being moved to an unknown location.
He, however, said his aides are still in captivity.
“We are pleased to share that the CTC Chairman, who was abducted by unknown assailants on the Kabba-Okene Expressway on August 2, 2024, has been safely released.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to God for his safe return. We also want to express our sincere thanks to all members for their prayers and support throughout this ordeal. Your unwavering commitment and the dedicated efforts of the security forces were crucial in ensuring his release.
“We continue to pray for the swift and safe release of his aides, asking that they be returned without harm as soon as possible,” a later statement by the Administrators of the Owe Political Platform said.