The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Edo State, Tony Aziegbemi, has been freed by his captors who seized him two weeks ago.
Aziegbemi reportedly returned to his residence around 3 a.m. on Tuesday after enduring approximately 11 days in captivity.
Senator Odion Ugbesia announced his release around 6:17 a.m., though it remains unverified whether ransom was exchanged for his freedom.
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 on Tuesday revealed that he was happy to be back home and reunited with his family.
He stated that this kidnapping 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 for your 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.”
