Edo Monarch’s Release: Police Lied, We Paid Ransom – Lawmaker

A member of the Edo State House of Assembly, Inegbeboh Eugene, has dismissed claims by security agencies that they were responsible for the rescue of the recently kidnapped traditional ruler of Udo-Eguare kingdom, HRH Friday Ehizojie.

The monarch was abducted alongside five others on February 3, 2025, while traveling on a motorcycle along a remote path in Igueben Local Government Area. However, Eugene insists that security forces did not play any role in his release, stating that the community paid a ransom to secure his freedom.

Speaking at the State House of Assembly on Monday, the lawmaker alleged that the kidnappers were herdsmen and accused security agencies of failing to act when they were informed about the abduction.

“Mr Speaker, it is interesting to know that during the trying period, I personally informed the security agencies about the kidnapping of our traditional ruler. The expectation was for them to act, but instead, they were pretending to be doing something when in reality, they did nothing,” Eugene said.

His statements contradict earlier claims made by both the State Police Command and the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), who separately announced that their operatives had rescued the monarch unhurt. The police had also thanked vigilantes, hunters, and residents for their assistance, while ESSC Commander, Friday Ibadin, claimed his men had combed the forest and handed the king over to the police for debriefing.

Eugene, however, accused them of trying to take undeserved credit, questioning the authenticity of their so-called rescue.

“At the end of the day, none of them knew how the traditional ruler returned home. But now, they are taking pictures with him and claiming credit for his release. Some even went on social media to say they rescued him,” he said.

He further challenged the security forces, asking: “How do you rescue someone from kidnappers without catching the culprits? Did they just walk in and bring him out? If they know the kidnappers, they should show us.”

Eugene insisted that it was the community that raised the ransom that secured the king’s freedom, not any security operation.

“Mr Speaker, I make bold to say that even though they will not admit it, it was by the grace of God that my people were able to raise the ransom that brought our king home.”

“So, Mr Speaker, no one should take credit for rescuing him. It is wrong.”

He went on to express gratitude to Governor Monday Okpebholo for his swift response and the logistical support he provided to security agencies during the crisis.

Eugene further urged the Speaker of the House to summon the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, Friday Ibadin, to give a detailed briefing on what his outfit is doing to address rising security concerns in Edo State.

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