The retired school principal, Akparawa Ezekiel Paul, who was kidnapped two Saturdays ago from his home in Ikot Abasi Akpan, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom state, has been freed after a week in captivity.
It remains unclear whether the ransom, initially set at N20 million and later reduced to N5 million during negotiations with the family, was paid to secure his release early Saturday.
Spokesperson for the Akwa Ibom State Police Command, ASP Timfon John, confirmed the news, stating, “The man has regained his freedom unhurt and has been reunited with his family.”
Elder brother to the victim and Arch-Bishop of the African Church Nigeria, Augustine Paul Akpan, revealed shortly after the release, “Akparawa Ezekiel was released early this morning by the kidnappers. We will be taking him to the hospital for rest and treatment. We thank the police for their efforts and all those who have prayed with us throughout the difficult period for his safe release.”
Additionally, police sources report that the kingpin of the kidnapping syndicate, known as ‘Taller’, along with other gang members notorious for terrorizing the area, have been apprehended.
The gang, known for its deadly activities, reportedly has cells in Ikot Abasi Akpan, Ikot Obio Nso, Ndon Eyo, Ndon Utim, and neighboring villages along the Ekparakwa-Etinan highway, where they detain victims until ransoms are paid for their release.
