Kidnappers took Tony Aziegbemi, the chairman of the Edo State People Democratic Party, on Friday night at about 11 pm on Idaro Street, off Country Home Road, Benin City.
Aziegbemi, who had just left a meeting at the government house, was kidnapped in his car while his driver was trying to navigate a speed bump on the road to his house.
The driver explained that as they were heading home after leaving the government house around 11 pm, he noticed a car following them. Trying to avoid it, he took a different route, unaware of the danger.
After a few minutes, the same cars blocked them on the road, and armed men demanded that the chairman get into their car. They then drove off with him in his own vehicle.
The kidnappers left Aziegbemi’s car on Sapele Road and took him away in their own cars.
At the time of reporting, government officials and security agencies were seen at the place where Aziegbemi was abducted.
The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed the incident but explained that it falls under the jurisdiction of the New Etete Police Division.
Nwabuzor stated, “It is confirmed. The case is in the jurisdiction of the New Etete Police Division, also known as Godwin Abbe Police Station, where it occurred.
“The Commissioner of Police has instructed the tactical teams to go after the gunmen, and we hope to bring him back safely by the grace of God.”
Aziegbemi was kidnapped shortly after the party's governorship primary, which saw Asue Ighodalo emerge as the PDP candidate for the September 21, 2024, state governorship election.
