President Jonathan’s Uncle Released From Kidnappers In Brass Yenagoa

                                      

Inengite Nitabai, 70-year-old uncle to President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria has been set free by his abductors after 17 days in captivity. Mr. Hilary Okara, Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa   confirmed the development Thursday claiming the victim was “rescued” in Odioma community in Brass local government area of Bayelsa.

The president’s uncle was abducted from his hometown of Otuoke in Ogbia  local gov’t area in  Bayelsa state  was on February 23   by unknown gunmen and whisked  away through the creeks. Bayelsa Police chief disclosed on Thursday that Nitabai was freed unharmed and has reunited with his family.

“He was rescued from Odioma coastal settlement and as I speak with you I am with him in his house in Otuoke,” Okpara said.

Okpara said that a total of six suspects including a traditional ruler believed to be the father of a leader of the kidnap ring have been arrested in connection with the abduction. Police sources did not disclose if any ransom was paid to secure the freedom of Nitabai.

It will be recalled that members the family had offered a ransom of N30 million but the kidnappers rejected it instead demanded for N500 million while threatening to behead Mr. Nitabai.

Unable to raise the N500 million, the family sent emissaries to President Jonathan who was expected to make up the difference.

Jonathan visited Otuoke  last Thursday to confer with the family on the abduction of Nitabai.

Inside sources said that the kidnappers got paid much earlier but were told to delay his freedom so that it will not be linked to Jonathan’s visit; a development that made the Police Command to dispel rumors that the kidnappers had killed their hostage on Tuesday.  

Source: Sahara Reporters