The paramount ruler of Esit Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, Chief Ubong Assam, has been freed by his captors.
Chief Assam was kidnapped about 10 days ago by gunmen who took him to an unknown destination and demanded N150 million as ransom.
The kidnappers were upset over the reported hijacking of oil spill compensation funds accruing to Esit Eket from ExxonMobil.
The funds, over N200 million, were used to refurbish the palace of the monarch, who doubled as the contractor, rather than the intended community development.
The hoodlums later reduced the ransom to N50 million but gave a one-week ultimatum for the money to be paid.
A source who was part of the negotiations that led to Chief Assam’s release said the hoodlums collected N15 million.
The source, who confirmed the freedom of the traditional ruler to SaharaReporters today, said the paramount ruler was in a sound and healthy state, adding, “As I speak, I am with him and his family members.
“We are very happy to see our paramount ruler back in Esit Eket,’’ the source said.
John Patrick, the Police Public Relations Officer in Akwa Ibom, confirmed the release.
No comments:
Post a Comment