Kidnapped Edo head of service now free – Family

Edo State head of civil service Anthony Okungbowa who was kidnapped on Saturday evening along Oza Road in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of the state has been released, a family source has said.

Mr Okungbowa was released on Monday night, the source who pleaded anonymity said.

It was learnt that Okungbowa was set free after payment of an undisclosed amount as ransom which was paid through a collaboration between the family and the state government.

“We just want to thank God that our brother has been set free and in good health condition,” said the source.

Okungbowa’s police orderly, who was shot in the process of the abduction, died on Monday evening from gunshot wounds, it was gathered.

The Edo head of service was kidnapped as he was returning to Benin after attending a local event in Oza. His driver was shot dead.