An aide to Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State, Mr.
Daniel Abang, has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen. Abang was abducted on his
way home around the Parliamentary Extension axis of the Calabar Municipal Local
Government Area in the early hours of Sunday.
At least five other persons, including an official in the
office of the state Accountant-General had been kidnapped in Calabar in the
last one week.
The kidnapping of Abang came barely two weeks after six
kidnappers were killed by security operatives in Ikom during a gun duel.
Southern City News learnt from a close family source that
the kidnappers are demanding N50m for the release of Abang.
The source, who craved anonymity, said the kidnappers are
negotiating with a top official of the Cross River State government for the
ransom to be paid.
The source condemned the recent surge in kidnapping in
Calabar, noting that it was coming at a period when visitors are expected to
flood the ancient town for the yearly Calabar Carnival.
He said, “The kidnappers are demanding N50m and they are
making the demand through a top government official in Cross River State.
“One other person was also kidnapped this week along Mayne
Avenue in Calabar South while four persons were kidnapped last week.
“Out of those four, one was released while three others are
still in captivity. This thing is fast becoming a daily threat in Calabar. It
is a real challenge to security agencies. We are approaching the carnival
season when so many visitors will be entering Calabar.”
Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Irene Ugbo, confirmed
the incident, adding that the police had swung into action to ensure that those
in captivity were released.
Punch
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