by Nurat Uthman
The abducted chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Edo State, Tony Aziegbemi, has been released by his abductors.
Aziegbemi was said to have arrived at his residence around 3 a.m. on Tuesday after spending about 11 days in captivity.
The news of his release was broken by Senator Odion Ugbesia around 6.17 a.m., but it could not be confirmed whether ransom was paid or not before he was released.
Gunmen kidnapped Aziegbemi close to his house on March 15 at about 11 p.m. on Idaro Street, off Country Home Road, Benin, Edo State.
Aziegbemi was said to have left a meeting at the Government House and was going home in his vehicle when he was waylaid and kidnapped in the presence of his driver, who was attempting to climb a speed breaker.
A family source had disclosed on Sunday to journalists in Benin that the abductors made contact with his family on Friday, demanding N500m ransom for his release.
However, Aziegbemi told the newsmen on Tuesday that he was happy to be back at home and reunited with his family.
He stated that this kidnap came with “the terrain,” and he wasn’t maltreated by the kidnappers.
He said, “I am happy to be back home. I thank you for calling and the concern. I am happy to reunite with my family. It comes with the terrain.
“I wasn’t maltreated by my kidnappers but again, I am happy to be back home.”
