Judge regains freedom after 12 days in kidnappers’ den

After 12 harrowing days in captivity, Rt. Hon. Justice E.G. Omukoro of the Bayelsa State High Court has regained his freedom following a successful rescue operation led by joint security forces.

The judge was freed unhurt without the payment of ransom, despite an earlier N300 million demand by his abductors.

Justice Omukoro was abducted and held in a forested area, with initial investigations tracing the suspected kidnappers to Ekeremor, his hometown in Bayelsa State.

His release was announced on Thursday night by the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Speaking shortly after his release at the DSS State Headquarters, a visibly exhausted Justice Omukoro described his ordeal as a deeply confusing and traumatic experience.

“I was confused in the kidnappers’ den. I still cannot come to terms with being kidnapped, kept in the forest, and exposed to the cold. I thank God I was rescued alive. It will always be an unforgettable experience,” he said.

He expressed deep gratitude to the Bayelsa State Government, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the Bayelsa Chief Judge, fellow judges, members of the Bar, and the security agencies who played critical roles in his safe return.

“I prayed to God that if I came out alive, I would testify to His goodness,” the judge added.

At the event, the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Daniel Ayah, praised the combined efforts of the Judiciary, security agencies, and the state government, stating that the ordeal was a source of great concern for the Chief Judge of the State.

Justice Ayah also confirmed the arrest of three suspects, while security operatives are still pursuing three others believed to be involved.

The Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, emphasized that the successful operation was the result of coordinated efforts between the police, DSS, and other tactical units working in unison to ensure the judge’s rescue.

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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Chairman in Bayelsa, Barr. Clement Kekemeke, commended members of the judiciary and legal community for their solidarity during the crisis, noting that the 12-day court boycott underscored the profession’s unity in difficult times.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, celebrated the rescue as a validation of Bayelsa’s commitment to security.

“This rescue has vindicated the State Government and reaffirmed Bayelsa as a safe haven,” she stated. She criticized detractors who had attempted to undermine the government’s security efforts, asserting that the operation proves that investments in security infrastructure are yielding tangible results.

A source within the State Police Command disclosed that four key suspects have been identified in connection with the abduction, with efforts ongoing to apprehend the remaining fugitives.

The safe return of Justice Omukoro has brought relief to the judiciary, legal community, and the people of Bayelsa State, marking a major victory against rising insecurity in the region.