Samuel Ohiri The former Chairman of the Ìmo State Council of Traditional Rulers, Samuel Ogiri, has debunked a claim by the Nigeria Police Force that no ransom was paid for the release of the monarch by his abductors.
Recall that media platforms widely reported that Samuel Ogiri was kidnapped by unknown gunmen at Orodo Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State on June 6, 2023, and was released after 12 days in the captivity of the kidnappers.
Imo State Police Command had claimed that it worked in collaboration with other security operatives to ensure the monarch was freed was the captivity of his abductors without paying a dime as ransom.
However, the revelation by the monarch showed ransom was paid before he could regain his freedom.
Contrary to the claim by the Police, the monarch said, “Contrary to what the police said about my release, there is no hiding the fact that they never played any role.
“I actually don’t want to speak on this but I’m doing it just to set the records straight. I’m not disputing the fact that the police may have made efforts towards my release but I’m talking about what I know.
“It was my relationship with God and the help from my family people that made it possible. Although, that was after we paid a ransom.”
Recounting his ordeal, Ohiri said “I was coming back after visiting my friend around 8:30 pm when I met able-bodied men in front of my palace gate who came in their vehicle.
“They double-crossed me and forced me into their vehicle. My cousin's brother smartly introduced himself as my driver and they set him free. They now blindfolded me and zoomed off to an unknown destination.
“I saw hell within the twelve days I spent in their den. Negotiations began between my people and the kidnappers and I was eventually set free after the payment of first and second ransom was made.”
Category: World-News
Tag: Police Lied Ransom was Paid Before Kidnappers Released Me Imo Monarch Says
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Published 1/27/2024 10:27:55 AM