AKPARAWA Ezekiel Paul, a retired school principal who was kidnapped in his home in Ikot Abasi Akpan, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom state, has been released after spending a week in captivity.
It remains unclear if the negotiated ransom of N20 million, which was reportedly reduced to N5 million during negotiations with the abductors, was paid to secure his release early on Saturday morning.
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The Akwa Ibom State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Timfon John, confirmed the development, stating, “The man has regained his freedom unhurt and has been reunited with his family.”
Augustine Paul Akpan, the elder brother of the victim and Arch-Bishop of the African Church Nigeria, expressed relief after his brother’s release, saying, “Akparawa Ezekiel was released early this morning by the kidnappers. We will be taking him to the hospital for rest and treatment. We thank the police for their efforts and all those who have prayed with us throughout this difficult period for his safe release.”
Meanwhile, police sources reported the arrest of the kingpin of the kidnap syndicate, known as “Taller,” along with other gang members who have been terrorizing the area.
The gang is known to operate in cells located in Ikot Abasi Akpan, Ikot Obio Nso, Ndon Eyo, Ndon Utim, and neighboring villages along the Ekparakwa-Etinan highway, where they hold their victims until ransoms are paid.
The successful release of Akparawa Ezekiel Paul and the subsequent arrests highlight ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and enhance security in the region.
