Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro of the Bayelsa State High Court has regained his freedom after spending 12 harrowing days in the hands of kidnappers.
He was presented to the media on Thursday evening at the Department of State Security’s Bayelsa State headquarters in Yenagoa.
According to reports, the kidnappers had initially demanded a ransom of “N300 million equivalent in foreign currency,” but the judge was ultimately freed “without payment of ransom.”
His release reportedly followed days of coordinated tactical operations by the police, led by Commander of Operation Puff Adder, Mr. Chris Nwaogbo.
Some of the suspects behind the abduction were traced to “Ekeremor Local Government Area,” where Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro originates.
Security sources revealed that family members of the judge had reached out to the kidnappers’ families, issuing stern warnings demanding his immediate release.
Bayelsa State Director of the Department of State Services, Oluwatosin Ajayi, and Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, confirmed to journalists that Omukoro was released “without ransom and unhurt.”
Appearing visibly exhausted, the judge expressed deep gratitude to all who played a role in securing his freedom. Reflecting on his ordeal, he said, “I was confused in the kidnappers’ den. I was beginning to get confused. I still could not come to terms with the fact that I was kidnapped and kept in the forest and exposed to cold. I thank God I was rescued alive.”
He continued, “I can’t thank God enough. It will always be an unforgettable experience for me. I thank God I came out unscathed.”
Justice Omukoro also revealed that his captors had expected his health to deteriorate: “The kidnappers told me I should have fallen critically ill. I was subjected to cold. I prayed to God that if I come out, I will testify to his goodness.”
Justice Daniel Ayah, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, commended the collective effort of security forces, the judiciary, and the state government in rescuing the judge. He noted that Bayelsa Chief Judge, Justice Mathilda Ayemieye, was deeply troubled by the 12-day ordeal.
Ayah disclosed that “three major suspects were arrested,” while three other key individuals believed to be involved in the abduction remain at large.
Commissioner of Police Francis Idu emphasized the collaborative effort: “The joint efforts of the security agencies abounded towards the rescue of the judge.”
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) State Chairman, Barr. Clement Kekemeke, praised the judiciary and the bar for their calm and unity during the crisis. “We embarked on court boycott and downed tools. Everyone played their roles and it tells us that in time of trouble, we should be united,” he stated.
Bayelsa Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, expressed happiness over the safe return of the judge, saying his release “has vindicated the state government and affirmed the state as a safe haven.”
She emphasized that despite attempts by detractors to discredit the government’s efforts on security, the outcome proved otherwise: “It is a triumph that the security agencies are working harmoniously with the state government. Bayelsa has invested so much in security.”
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