The Digest:
The Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque in Edo State, Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, has directly contradicted police claims of his rescue, disclosing that he paid a N6.5 million ransom to regain his freedom. This revelation highlights the stark ransom reality faced by kidnap victims, often at odds with official narratives.
Key Points:
- Imam Obhakhobo was abducted on July 9, 2025, along the Ubiaja-Illushi road, with his abductors initially demanding N30 million.
- While the Edo State police spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, stated the Imam was "rescued following sustained pressure," Imam Obhakhobo firmly denied this.
- "I got myself released by paying N6.5 million on July 13, but I was shocked to read in the news that I was rescued by the police," the Imam told journalists.
- He confirmed that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Uromi Division visited him post-release to gather information, which he provided, expressing surprise at the police's subsequent attempt to "take credit for doing nothing."
- Despite the ordeal, the Chief Imam expressed gratitude to those who prayed for him and showed concern during his captivity.
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