After spending 13 harrowing days in captivity, Bayelsa State High Court Judge, Rt. Hon. Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, has regained his freedom. The judge was released without the payment of any ransom, despite earlier demands by his abductors for a staggering N300 million in foreign currency.
His release followed an intensive joint security operation led by the Commander of Operation Puff Adder, CSP Chris Nwaogbo. The operation also saw support from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force. Investigations reportedly traced some of the kidnappers to the Ekeremor axis of the state, which is also the hometown of the judge.
Security sources disclosed that in a desperate bid to secure his release, some of Justice Omukoro’s relatives reached out to families of the kidnappers, issuing stern warnings that intensified pressure on the abductors.
The Bayelsa State Director of the DSS, and the State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, jointly announced the judge’s release on Thursday night, confirming that no ransom was paid and that Justice Omukoro was rescued unhurt.
Speaking after his release at the DSS headquarters, a visibly fatigued Justice Omukoro, dressed in a grey sweater, expressed immense gratitude. “I was confused in the kidnappers’ den. I couldn’t believe I was being held in the forest and exposed to cold. I thank God I came out alive. The kidnappers said I should have fallen critically ill, but I survived. I prayed to God and promised to testify if I made it out,” he said.
President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Daniel Ayah, described the rescue as a result of coordinated efforts by the judiciary, the state government, and security agencies. He also disclosed that three suspects have been arrested, while three others remain at large.
Commissioner of Police Francis Idu confirmed the collaborative work between security operatives which ensured the safe return of the judge. “It was a joint and determined effort,” he stated.
Reacting to the development, State NBA Chairman, Barr. Clement Kekemeke, commended members of the judiciary and legal profession for their calm and unity throughout the ordeal. “We downed tools and boycotted courts. Everyone played their part. It showed what we can achieve when we stand together,” he said.
Bayelsa Commissioner for Information, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, praised the operation, stating that the successful rescue demonstrated the synergy between the state government and security agencies. “Bayelsa has invested heavily in security. This is a triumph that reaffirms our state as a safe place,” she noted.
● Report by Barristerng.com
