Two senior officials from the Oke Ero Local Government Area in Kwara State, Barrister Elizabeth Arinde, Head of the Legal Department, and Alhaji Musibau Amuda, Director of Personnel Management, have been released after being kidnapped by unidentified gunmen.
Their release was confirmed on Monday through a statement issued by the Executive Chairman of Oke Ero Local Government, Hon. James Abiodun Fadipe.
Expressing heartfelt relief, Fadipe described the officials’ safe return as nothing short of divine intervention.
“This is indeed the Lord’s doing, and we are filled with joy and thanksgiving,” he said.
The statement, titled ‘Appreciation and Gratitude Message’, read:
“On behalf of the Executive Chairman of Oke Ero Local Government, Hon. James Abiodun Fadipe, we extend our heartfelt appreciation and sincere gratitude to the Almighty God for His mercy and protection over our dear Director of Personnel Management, Alhaji Musibau Amuda, and the Local Government Legal Officer, Barrister Omoladun Elizabeth Arinde, who have safely returned to us in good health.”
Fadipe also acknowledged the role of various supporters during the crisis, stating, “We are deeply grateful to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman CON, and the leadership of ALGON for their steadfast support during this challenging period.”
He extended further thanks to religious leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies, political figures, party supporters, the DPM and LGT forums, and other well-wishers.
“We also express our profound thanks… to all who stood by us in prayer, encouragement, and action,” the statement added.
“May the Almighty God continue to bless you all abundantly. We remain committed to working together for the continued peace, progress, and development of our local government,” Fadipe assured.
In conclusion, Fadipe offered prayers for ongoing protection and success: “In this moment of joy, we offer prayers for continued protection and success for all.
May God grant us peace, unity, and progress as we continue to serve our people. Once again, thank you all for your invaluable support.”
Earlier, SaharaReporters had broken the news of the abduction of Barrister Arinde, confirming that she was seized alongside the Deputy Permanent Secretary while travelling from Oke Ero to Ilorin on Friday, April 25, 2025.
A separate statement from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), signed by the Chairman of its Ilorin Branch, S.M.H. Kosemani Esq, also raised alarm over the incident.
“We are deeply concerned to inform you that Barrister Elizabeth Arinde, Head of the Legal Department at Oke Ero Local Government in Kwara State, has been kidnapped,” the NBA statement said.
