Edo: Police launch rescue operation after wife of Igarra youth leader kidnapped

Edo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of the wife of Ubani Okuo, Chairman of the Youth Group of Igarra community, the administrative headquarters of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.

The state’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Nkereuwem Ikoedem, stated that the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has directed Divisional Police Officers in the area to collaborate closely to ensure the safe recovery of the victim.

“We received a report of a suspected kidnapping. The Commissioner of Police has instructed all Divisional Police Officers in the area to work together to rescue the victim promptly,” the PPRO said on Thursday.


According to a source within the community who spoke on condition of anonymity due to lack of authorization to speak publicly, Okuo’s wife was abducted on Tuesday night while returning home from her shop in Igarra town.

In response to the incident, residents have imposed a curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. and restricted night burial dances to between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., a measure aimed at enhancing community safety.

The paramount ruler of the Igarra/Akuku Clan, Oba Adeche Saiki, confirmed the kidnapping and explained that the curfew was a collaborative decision involving the local government chairman, the police, and the traditional institution.

“It is true. We suspect that these criminal elements now live among us and may even blend in with residents before carrying out their activities at night.

“The curfew is a joint agreement between the local government chairman, the police, and our traditional institution, and it will be enforced across the entire local government area,” Oba Saiki said.

Authorities have assured that all efforts are being made to locate and safely recover the abducted woman, while residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police.