Abducted Edo traditional ruler rescued by police

From Tony Osauzo, Benin

The Edo State Police Command has announced the rescue of the Onogie of Udo-Eguare community, His Royal Highness, Friday Ehizojie, who was abducted by suspected kidnappers.

Recall that the Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Moses Yamu, had in a statement on 3 February disclosed that the traditional ruler was ambushed while commuting on a motorcycle, popularly known as ‘Okada,’ and in the process, the motorcyclist was killed.

An unspecified number of other persons were also reportedly abducted on the same day by the kidnappers.

The PPRO, in a statement dated 7 February 2025, explained that the rescue of the traditional ruler was made possible due to a sustained search and the logistic support provided by the state government and other stakeholders.

“The Edo State Police Command is pleased to inform the general public that the sustained search and rescue operations have yielded positive results.

“The Commissioner of Police of the Edo State Command, Betty Otimenyin, has today, 7 February 2024, at about 18:00 hrs, kept her vow with the rescue of the Onogie of Udo-Eguare community, His Royal Highness, Friday Ehizojie, who was earlier kidnapped on 3 February 2025.

“The Command appreciates the Government of Edo State and attributes this success to the logistic support rendered by the Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, towards this operation.

“The Command equally appreciates the vigilantes, hunters, and other well-meaning residents of the state for their support so far.

“The general public is assured of the Command’s commitment, as the fight against crime remains unshaken,” the statement said.