The kidnappers took Tony Aziegbemi, the Chairman of the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party, on Friday at around 11 pm on Idaro Street, off Country Home Road, Benin, Edo State. They have not contacted any of his family members or political associates yet, even after two days.
Gunmen abducted Aziegbemi late at night on Friday on Idaro Street, off Country Home Road, Benin, Edo State.
Aziegbemi was kidnapped after leaving a meeting at the Government House and heading home in his car. He was ambushed while his driver was trying to go over a speed bump.
So far, there has been no contact from the kidnappers, according to a family friend. A colleague also confirmed that the abductors have not reached out to family members or associates.
Concern is shared by family members, as well as others, as they did not take his phone which is with his driver.
The police deployed a tactical team on Saturday to investigate the case, but as of now, there have been no new developments, according to Edo State police spokesman Chidi Nwabuzor.
The Edo PDP chairman's kidnapping continues to receive criticism, with the state government assuring that it is actively working with security agencies to ensure his safe return to his family.
The Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, stated on Saturday night that surveillance has been increased and security measures have been strengthened across the state to combat criminal activities and bring the culprits to justice.
Residents are encouraged to carry on with their lawful activities without fear and report any suspicious individuals or activities by calling the state emergency numbers 112 or 739, as assured by the government.
The government is committed to safeguarding the lives and property of Edo residents and is dedicated to ensuring that the perpetrators of this despicable act are caught and face the consequences, asserted the statement.
Asue Ighodalo, the PDP governorship candidate for the September 21, 2024 election, condemned the kidnapping of Azeigbemi, expressing shock at the incident.
Ighodalo described the news of the kidnapping of the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party Chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, as extremely shocking and distressing in a statement on Sunday.
He strongly condemned the act and extended heartfelt prayers to the Aziegbemi family during this difficult time, joining them in hoping for his safe return.
He also urged the security agencies to continue their diligent efforts in investigating the matter and securing the safe release of the party chairman.
Similarly, the Edo State chapter of the Labour Party expressed concern over the kidnapping.
The Publicity Secretary of the Edo LP, Sam Uroupa, attributed the concerning development to the inadequate security network in the state in a statement on Sunday.
He mentioned that despite the acclaimed security network and alleged use of vigilantes for thuggery and voter intimidation during elections, lives and property in the state are not safe.
The kidnapping of the state chairman of the ruling party shows that Edo State has serious problems with security and governance which should keep its people safe.
This abduction is a strong reminder to Governor Godwin Obaseki's administration that the state is not safe and the government needs to do more to protect its people.
