From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The abductors of the Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Tony Aziegbemi, set him free in the early hours of Tuesday after spending 11 days in their captivity.
Aziegbemi was said to have arrived at his residence at about 3 am.
The news of his release was broken by Senator Odion Ugbesia at about 6.17 am, Tuesday, March 26, 2024.
Recall that Dr. Aziegbemi was abducted by gunmen on Friday, March 16 at about 11 pm close to his Government Reservation Area (GRA) residence in Benin City while returning from a meeting he attended in Government House.
His abductors were said to have later contacted his family and demanded N500 million ransom to set him free.
It could not however be ascertained yesterday whether ransom was paid before he regained his freedom.
Speaking shortly after his release yesterday morning, Dr Aziegbemi said he was happy to be back home and reunited with his family.
He explained that “this kidnap comes with the terrain” and that he was not maltreated by his abductors.
“I am happy to be back home. I thank you for calling and for your concern. I am happy to reunite with my family. It comes with terrain.
“I wasn’t maltreated by my kidnappers but again I am happy to be back home,” he said.