The whereabouts of Chief Okey Wali, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), remains unknown four days after he was kidnapped by unknown persons in Port Harcourt. The incident occurred last Monday when suspected kidnappers hijacked his convoy, killing one of his aides in the process. Two policemen attached to the former NBA President were also seriously injured while giving chase to the kidnappers.
The Conscience of Ogoni People (COP) has called on the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, and Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Okon Effiong, to ensure the safe release of the senior lawyer. COP’s leader, Chief Gani Topba, described Wali as a respected leader and patriot of Rivers State and Nigeria, who had contributed greatly to their growth and development.
According to COP, Wali is a practical philanthropist and community builder who has held several positions of trust in Rivers State, Nigeria and beyond, and has made the state proud. While condemning the abduction, COP appealed to Wali’s abductors not to harm him and called for his unconditional release to his family.
COP also urged the relevant authorities to put an end to similar devilish acts of attempt to assault or assassinate men of goodwill, by the enemies of Rivers State. COP acknowledged the efforts of the current administration in Rivers State under Governor Nyesom Wike in providing adequate security for all Nigerians living and doing business in the state.
In this trying moment, COP stands with Wali’s family and the Government of Rivers State and pledges their full support in praying for his safe return home. COP advises all citizens to volunteer information to relevant authorities in this regard. The Inspector General of Police and Commissioner of Police in Rivers State have been called upon to work tirelessly towards the safe release of the kidnapped lawyer