Gov. Alia gives Details on Release of Kidnapped Benue Commissioner

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has said that no ransom was paid to secure the release of his Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Mathew Abo.

TrackNews Media reports that Abo was kidnapped on September 24, 2023, at his residence in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of the state.

He was released on October 4, 2023, after spending 10 days in captivity.

In a statement on Thursday, Alia’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Sir Tersoo Kula, said that the commissioner’s release was the result of “intense pressure” on the kidnappers from security operatives.

“We can confirm that the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Matthew Abo, has regained freedom. He has since reunited with his family in Sankera, Ukum Local Government Area where he was abducted,” the statement said.

“His release was as a result of intense pressure on the criminals from the gallant security operatives who were acting on the directives of Gov. Hyacinth Alia, who had earlier given marching orders to them to ensure Mr. Abo’s release.”

Alia commended the security operatives for ensuring the safe release of the commissioner and tasked them to ensure the safe release of the remaining captives.

“He charged the security operatives to be ruthless on criminals and ensure that they have no room to operate in the state,” the statement said.

The statement also disclosed that the kidnappers were still holding the former Chairman, Ukum LGA, Mr Washima Erukaa and his cousin, who discreetly went to negotiate with them for the release of Mr Erukaa but were also kidnapped.

The former chairman was kidnapped at a different location and date.