By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Imo Monarch clarifies kidnapping ordeal, denies Police rescue claims
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His Royal Majesty, Eze Samuel Ohiri, the immediate past Chairman of Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, vehemently countered social media reports crediting his freedom from the kidnappers’ den to the tactical intervention of the Nigerian Police Force operatives.
Eze Ohiri clarified that he paid an undisclosed ransom in two instalments, refuting any involvement of the police during his 12 days in the kidnappers’ custody. In a speech at his palace, he emphasized the need to set the record straight and criticized the dissemination of misleading information.
Narrating his ordeal, Eze Ohiri revealed that he was abducted on January 6, 2024, after returning from celebrating the Christmas and New Year festivities. He described the abductors as “merciless boys (men)” who blindfolded him and transported him to an unknown location. During his captivity, he endured challenging conditions, with negotiations eventually leading to his release after the payment of ransoms.
Eze Ohiri urged caution against organizations spreading misinformation and emphasized the importance of truth in public discourse. The monarch’s clarification sheds light on the complexities of his abduction and challenges prevailing narratives regarding his rescue.
Imo Monarch,
Kidnapping Ordeal,
Nigerian Police Force,
Ransom Payment