Benue Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Hon. Matthew Abo, who was abducted by suspected gunmen in his home town in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State has been set free by his abductors.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula confirmed the latest report on the release of the commissioner in a statement.
The statement said Abo has since reunited with his family in Sankera, Ukum Local Government.
The statement further said: “No ransom or any other monetary exchanges were involved in securing his release.
“Rather, his release was as a result of intense pressure on the criminals from the gallant security operatives who were acting on the directives of Gov. Hyacinth Alia, who had earlier given marching orders to them to ensure Mr. Abo’s release.
“However, the criminals are still in custody of the former Chairman, Ukum LGA, Mr. Washima Erukaa and his cousin who it was learnt discreetly went to negotiate with the kidnappers and was also kidnapped.p
“His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, who has welcomed back the Commissioner, has warned criminals operating within the State to leave for good, insisting that they will not be tolerated in any form.”
The Police has through its Public Relations Officer, in the state, SP Sewuese Anene also confirmed that the commissioner has been set free.