Abductors of Benue State Commissioner of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mathew Abo, have demanded a ransom of N60 million from the family before releasing him from captivity.
A family source who pleaded anonymity said the abductors made the demand in a phone call to a family member on Friday, adding that the kidnappers have resorted to torturing the Commissioner to show the degree of seriousness for the ransom.
He added that the gunmen had placed the phone on speaker so that their thrashing of the Commissioner and his cry for help could be heard for a quick response by those concerned.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, who described the act as barbaric, directed security operatives to go after the gunmen with the aim of rescuing the Commissioner.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, In a statement, said criminality has no place in the Alia administration.
Also, the Benue State House of Assembly, while conferring the award of excellence on the Commander of Operation ZENDA Task Force Security outfit, CSP Justin Gberindyer, charged him to ensure the rescue of the Commissioner from the abductors.
The abduction took place at about 8pm Sunday, September 24, 2023, at his residence in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Benue State Command, SP Sewuese Anene, who confirmed the incident, said investigation is ongoing.
