The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the release of Benedict Akika, a prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain who was abducted from his residence in Idi Ape, Olorunda-Aba, located in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State. Akika, who was kidnapped on September 4, 2024, by armed gunmen, was freed on Wednesday, following an intensive manhunt by the police.
The Command’s spokesperson, Adéwálé Osifeso, disclosed Akika’s release in a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Thursday. The masked gunmen had stormed Akika’s home, abducting the politician in a coordinated attack. However, after several days of a rigorous search by the command’s tactical intelligence team, the police successfully secured his release.
Osifeso explained that the search mission extended to forests across Ijagun, Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, Ore in Ondo State, and Uselu in Edo State, before the abductors were cornered and Akika freed.
“The politician was freed from his captors after days of intensive manhunt by the command’s tactical, intelligence, and operational assets,” the statement read. “The victim, who regained his freedom on Wednesday evening, September 9, 2024, is currently undergoing medical intervention before his final reunion with his loved ones. Efforts are in top gear to apprehend the criminal network responsible for the reprehensible act.”
The police further urged residents to assist the investigation by providing timely and credible information to ensure the state remains secure.
Akika is regarded as a key ally of Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, and his abduction had stirred concern across the state. His release brings relief, but the police remain focused on tracking down the kidnappers and preventing similar incidents in the future.
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