The Edo State Government has directed security agencies to rescue the 90-year-old father of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) senatorial candidate for Edo South, Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, who was reportedly abducted in Benin City.
Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwen was allegedly taken from his residence at about 4am on Tuesday by armed men who reportedly identified themselves as policemen and members of the Edo State Security Network.
His whereabouts remained unknown as of press time.
Matthew confirmed the incident, saying the alleged abductors did not allow him to speak with his father before taking him away.
Reacting to the report, the Edo State Government denied involvement and described the alleged abduction as “morally reprehensible”.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, said Governor Monday Okpebholo had directed security agencies to work together to secure the elderly man’s release within 24 hours.
“The Governor has immediately directed the security agencies to work in collaboration and synergy to seek the release of Pa Joseph within the next twenty-four hours,” Afegbua said.
He urged anyone with useful information about the incident to provide it to security agencies to aid the rescue operation and arrest of those responsible.
Afegbua also criticised what he described as attempts to immediately give the incident a political interpretation while details remained unclear.
He said the state government had invested in security infrastructure and would remain committed to protecting residents.
The Edo Police spokesperson, Eko Ikoedem, said the command would issue a statement on the incident.
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