Gunmenmen

Richard Elesho

The Forum of Okun Media Practitioners in KOGI State has called on Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to explore all avenues in securing the release of five persons kidnapped along Kabba/Okene road penultimate Friday.

The forum in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday said the five people comprising two students of KOGI State University, Kabba, (KSUK) and three aides of the Caretaker Chairman of Kabba/Bunu, Mr. Micheal Dare were kidnapped the same day on the road.

Signed by the forum Chairman, Chief Femi Olugbemi, and Secretary, Mr Boluwaji Obahopo, the group lamented that the abductees’ continuous stay at the kidnapper’s den has caused serious and growing concern for parents and guardians of the students as well as family members of the CTC aides.

“May we bring to your notice that it is eleven (11) days that kidnappers in their dastard act abducted Kabba-Bunu LG Caretaker Chairman, Zaccheaus Dare Michael and five other persons along Kabba-Okene Express Way. While three of the abductees were aides to the Caretaker chairman, the other two were students of the Kogi State University, Kabba.

“Luckily, in less than 10 hours thereafter, the Caretaker Chairman was “miraculously” released, but others were not fortunate!

“Your excellency, considering the traumatizing experience, psychological torture and emotional upheavals the family members have been going through in the last 11 unfortunate days, it beholds on us as a body to write you on the need to intervene in this unfortunate incident.

“We are very much aware of your concern for the security of lives and property of people in your domain as a state we are proud of the pragmatic steps you have taken in time past and the accomplishment that you have regarded in just a few months you’ve mounted the saddle of leadership of the state, as far as security is concerned.

“Your Excellency, you have demonstrated that you will be morally upright, just, proactive and humane in all your endeavours.

“It is given these traits that we implore you to kindly explore all means possible to speedily expedite actions that could lead to the unconditional and safe release of the hostages in the kidnapper’s den.

“It is our earnest hope and optimism that you shall do the needful as soon as possible, sir. Thank you, your Excellency, for being responsive.