Two senior officials of Oke Ero Local Government Area in Kwara State, Barrister Elizabeth Arinde, Head of the Legal Department, and Alhaji Musibau Amuda, Director of Personnel Management, have been released from captivity after unknown gunmen seized them on Friday.
The officials were traveling from Oke Ero to Ilorin, Kwara State’s capital, when they were kidnapped.
The news of their safe release was officially confirmed in a statement issued by the Executive Chairman of Oke Ero Local Government, Hon. James Abiodun Fadipe, on Monday. Fadipe expressed immense relief and gratitude, describing the safe return of the officials as “the Lord’s doing,” and thanked all those who supported the local government throughout the ordeal.
The statement reads: “On behalf of the Executive Chairman of Oke Ero Local Government, Hon. James Abiodun Fadipe, we extend our heartfelt appreciation and sincere gratitude to the Almighty God for His mercy and protection over our dear Director of Personnel Management, Alhaji Musibau Amuda, and the Local Government Legal Officer, Barrister Omoladun Elizabeth Arinde, who have safely returned to us in good health.
“This is indeed the Lord’s doing, and we are filled with joy and thanksgiving.”
Fadipe also thanked Kwara State Governor, Mallam Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman, and the leadership of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria for their unwavering support during this difficult time. Additionally, he expressed gratitude to religious leaders, traditional rulers, security agencies, political leaders, and all well-wishers who stood by them with prayers, encouragement, and action.
“We also express our profound thanks to religious leaders, traditional rulers, security operatives, political leaders, party men and women, DPM and LGT forums, and all well-wishers who stood by us in prayer, encouragement, and action,” he added.
Barrister Elizabeth Arinde and Alhaji Musibau Amuda were reportedly abducted on their way to Ilorin, alongside the Deputy Personnel Management of the Local Government.
The Nigerian Bar Association Ilorin Branch had issued a statement on April 25, 2025, confirming Arinde’s abduction and raising concerns over the incident.
The association called for immediate action from authorities to ensure the officials’ safe return.
Local and state authorities quickly mobilized efforts to negotiate the officials’ release, with support from various community stakeholders, including security forces, traditional leaders, and religious bodies. This coordinated effort ultimately led to the safe release of the two officials.
Expressing relief and joy at their safe return, Fadipe emphasized the importance of continued unity and progress within the local government. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring peace and development in the area.
“We remain committed to working together for the continued peace, progress, and development of our local government,” Fadipe stated, while also offering prayers for the safety and success of all local government officials, residents, and leaders.
The quick and efficient response from security agencies, political leaders, and the community has been hailed as a positive example of collaboration in the face of adversity. The safe return of Barrister Arinde and Alhaji Amuda is seen as a victory for the community and the local government, which continues to focus on maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
As the investigation into the abduction continues, the local authorities have vowed to implement further measures to bolster security in the area, aiming to prevent future abductions and ensure the safety of both government officials and the public.
The local government’s leadership has expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support received from the Kwara State Government, security agencies, religious bodies, and the wider community, reinforcing their collective commitment to achieving peace and prosperity within the local government.
The Oke Ero Local Government remains focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents while continuing efforts to foster unity and development across the region.
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