The Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque in Edo State, Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, has openly dismissed the claim by the Edo State Police Command that they were responsible for securing his release from kidnappers. Contrary to the police narrative, Imam Obhakhobo said he regained his freedom through private arrangements after paying a ransom of N6.5 million.
The Islamic cleric was abducted on July 9, 2025, along the Ubiaja-Illushi highway. Initial reports indicated that the kidnappers demanded N30 million in exchange for his release.
In a statement issued shortly after the incident, the spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, CSP Moses Yamu, had said that Imam Obhakhobo’s freedom was achieved due to sustained pressure mounted by police officers during a rescue operation.
But addressing journalists in Uromi, Imam Obhakhobo strongly countered the police account, saying it was far from the truth.
“I am Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque, Edo Central. I was kidnapped on July 9 along Ubiaja-Illushi road,” he narrated. “I was released on July 13 after paying N6.5 million to my abductors. So, I was very surprised to see reports claiming that I was rescued by the police.”
He revealed that upon returning home, he was visited by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Uromi Division, who sought details about the incident. Imam Obhakhobo said he provided a full account of the ordeal, only to later discover the police had claimed credit for his release.
“I explained everything to the DPO. But despite that, I saw the police issuing statements suggesting they rescued me. That is misleading,” he said.
He insisted that no law enforcement agency played a role in his release, which was solely facilitated through private negotiation and the payment of a hefty ransom.
“My freedom came through personal efforts and contributions from concerned individuals, not any police action,” he emphasized.
Despite the ordeal, the cleric took time to express appreciation to everyone who stood by him during his time in captivity. He thanked members of the public for their prayers and support, adding that their concern was a source of strength during his difficult period.
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