The Edo State Police Command on Friday said it rescued Reverend Father Philip Ekeli, who was kidnapped alongside Seminarian Peter Andrew in the state on March 3.
This came as Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has disclosed that his administration would do all within its powers to rid the state of all criminal elements.
The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Moses Yamu, announced the rescue of Ekeli in a statement in Benin on Friday.
Yamu, however, noted that the seminarian tragically lost his life in captivity.
The duo were reportedly kidnapped at St. Peters Catholic Church, Iviukha in Etsako East Local Council of the state.
The police spokesperson said that security operatives and local vigilantes secured Ekeli’s release on March 13, about 4:52pm in Amughe community.
“Bush-combing efforts are ongoing to recover the remains of the seminarian and apprehend the remaining members of the gang,” Yamu said.
He disclosed that one suspect was neutralised while four others were arrested on the day of the abduction.
“Security forces are continuing operations to track down the fleeing kidnappers,” he said.
The spokesperson said the command condemns the killing of the seminarian, assuring the public of its commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Yamu urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
Perturbed by the activities of criminal elements in his state, Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the protection of lives and property, maintaining that the reputation of the state as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria would not be compromised under any guise.
The state had recently been faced with security challenges, including incidents of kidnapping and killings, particularly in some parts of its agrarian belt.
According to Aiyedatiwa, who spoke during a critical stakeholders’ meeting held at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome), Akure, the state capital, his administration would work tirelessly to ensure that the state remains a safe haven for residents and investors alike.
He said: “Let me make this clear. We will not allow Ondo State to become a haven for criminals. While we welcome all law-abiding Nigerians who wish to live and conduct legitimate businesses here, we will not tolerate individuals disguising themselves as farmers while using our forests as hideouts for illegal activities such as kidnapping and other crimes. We will deploy all necessary resources to flush them out of their hiding places.”
The governor also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and village heads to remain vigilant and collaborate with security agencies.
“Whenever you notice any suspicious movement, alert the security agents immediately. If you see something, say something. Security is a collective responsibility for everyone.
“I will also be meeting with traditional rulers because insecurity in any part of the state affects the entire state. Ondo State is recognised as the most peaceful state in Nigeria, and we must continue to uphold that status,” he added.
