In a dramatic turn of events, the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Okey Wali (SAN), and a Warri-based lawyer who were both kidnapped have been released after two weeks in captivity.
Wali was reportedly abducted by armed men dressed in military uniform in the Obiri-Kwere axis of the East-West Road in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on the night of April 17.
The incident caused great concern for the NBA and Wali’s family, as the kidnappers reportedly did not contact them for several days.
However, the NBA Chairman, Port Harcourt branch, Viktor Benibo, confirmed Wali’s release to reporters on Monday, stating that he had rejoined his family.
In his words, “He (Wali) is in his house. He was released in the early hours of today. Then NBA Port Harcourt branch received the news of his release with joy. It is a thing of joy and it is something we have been praying for. So we are very happy. It has been a very anxious moment for everybody you know considering his contributions to the Bar. He is a father to many and also a mentor to many of us. So, I think everybody is happy.”
The news of Wali’s release was received with great relief by the NBA and the wider legal community. While the circumstances of Wali’s release remain unclear, it is not yet known if any ransom was paid for his safe return.
The police have yet to issue an official statement regarding the release of Wali and the Warri-based lawyer. The kidnapping of high-profile individuals is not uncommon in Nigeria, where criminal gangs often target wealthy or influential individuals for ransom.
However, the abduction of Wali, who is widely respected and admired in the legal community, has sent shockwaves throughout the country.
Many are relieved that Wali and the Warri-based lawyer have been released unharmed, but the incident has raised concerns about the security situation in the country and the need for greater efforts to tackle kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.
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