I paid ransom in two tranches to kidnappers, I wasn’t rescued – A traditional ruler in Imo State

The former Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty, Eze Samuel Ohiri, who unknown gunmen recently abducted, strongly denies the social media reports suggesting that the Nigerian Police Force played a crucial role in securing his release from the kidnappers.

According to him, he paid an undisclosed ransom in two installments after spending 12 days in the kidnappers' hideout. He emphasized that the police did not attempt to rescue him during his abduction.

During a speech at his palace, Eze Ohiri asserted that the police had no involvement in his eventual freedom. He stated, "I wouldn't have spoken out, but I feel compelled to reveal the truth due to the viral social media reports. I dislike any organization using government cover to spread lies, deceive the society, and promote itself."

Recounting his experience, Eze Ohiri explained that he returned to celebrate the 2023 Christmas and 2024 New Year with his family and the community, only to be abducted on January 6, 2024. He described the perpetrators as "merciless boys (men)" who forcibly took him from his palace early in the morning.

He continued, "They kept me initially in an unfinished building before transferring me to another location. I faced challenges during the 12 days with my abductors. Although it seemed they had grievances against traditional rulers and politicians, their leader intervened, preventing any harm to me, acknowledging my decency."

Eze Ohiri revealed that negotiations between his people and the kidnappers led to his release after the payment of the first and second ransoms. He was taken to Eziama Obiato, a community in Mbaitoli council area, from where he managed to return to Owerri at Control Post junction, where his people retrieved him.

He concluded, "While in captivity, my sustenance was limited to water, two wraps of gala, and sometimes bread with water at night. This is why I characterize them as merciless."