Kidnap activities in Nigeria’s Akwa Ibom have taken a frightening dimension following the abduction of a retired Permanent Secretary in the state, Mr Ignatius Brown.
Our correspondent gathered that suspected gunmen kidnapped Brown on Sunday at his Abak residence shortly after he returned from church service.
He worships at St John’s Pro-Cathedral, Abak and was returning from church service when the gunmen swooped on him as he was about entering his compound, located behind Abak Township Stadium.
Related news
- Gunmen Kidnap Akwa Ibom School Principal, Escape With SUV
- A’Ibom Police Arrest V/Head, 4 Others Over Alleged Kidnapping
- A’Ibom Police Command Arrests 15 Kidnapping Suspects In Etim Ekpo, Ukanafun
Brown, who was a Permanent Secretary, Special Service Department during former Governor Godswill Akpabio administration, hails from Etinan Local Government Area but is resident in Abak.
It was further gathered that the victim has lived a quiet life after retirement from service and he is not involved in partisan politics.
A family source told our correspondent that the three-man gang trailed the victim from the church to his house, blocked him entering his compound and bolted away with the victim.
They were said to have fired several gunshots to scare away other residents of the area from intervening and then whisked him away to an unknown destination. The family is not yet contacted.
Residents of the area who spoke with our correspondent on strict anonymity, expressed fear over the resurgence of kidnappers, and called on the government and security agents to buckle up for safety of lives and property.
Recall that kidnap for ransom ring has gained grounds in recent times in Abak, Etim Ekpo, Oruk Anam, Mkpat Enin and other parts of the State.
Two months ago, the principal of Madonna Secondary School, Oruk Anam Local Government Area was kidnapped by gunmen and was released after payment of ransom.
Television evangelist and founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church, Mkpat Enin, Apostle John Okoriko was kidnapped in his church premises, Ibekwe Akpa Nya in Mkpat Enin. Two Igbo business men were also kidnapped in Abak and released after payment of ransom.
When Straightnews spoke with Akwa Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer, Odiko MacDdon on Tuesday, he confirmed the kidnap incident.
MacDon, who is a Superintendent of Police, said the police command is on top of the situation and committed to ensuring the release of the kidnapped Permanent Secretary unhurt for safe return to the his family.’’
According to him, ‘‘The state Commissioner of Police has directed Tactical team of the command to swoop into action in a discreet effort to ensure the quick rescue of the man in no distant time.’’
