The Nasarawa State Police Command has debunked reports making the rounds that a sum of N10 million was paid for the release of the abducted chairman of Akwanga Local Government Area, Safiyanu Andaha.
Confirming the release of the local government chairman, on Wednesday, the state police public relations officer (PPRO), DSP Ramhan Nansel, said no ransom was paid for his release.
He also revealed that the chairman was released, along with three others, at about 8:45 p.m. on Tuesday in Andaha village, Akwanga.
“They were released at about 8.45 p.m. on Tuesday due to sustained pressure mounted on them by our operatives deployed on their trail,” he stated.
According to the Police PRO, following their abduction, the police, together with other security agencies in the state, mounted pressure and consistent search until the victims were released unhurt.
While countering the reports that N10 million was paid as ransom, the PPRO explained that, although the kidnappers had earlier demanded a N50 million ransom, they did not pay any money to them for the release of the local government chairman and the three other victims.
He further disclosed that the victims are still receiving medical attention and would be reunited with their families afterward.
News About Nigeria reported that Andaha and one other person were abducted by gunmen in Ningo village, Akwanga LGA on New Year’s Day.
Following their abduction, the Nasarawa State Commissioner of Police, Umar Nadada, mobilised personnel to go after the kidnappers to rescue the LG Chairman and one other person who was kidnapped.
