The Edo State government, through its Anti-Kidnapping Task Force, demolished a property in Uromi, Esan North Local Government Area, on Thursday, belonging to Odianosen Oboh, who confessed to participating in kidnapping operations in Edo Central.
The demolition underscores the government’s commitment to eradicating kidnapping in the state and serving as a deterrent to others.
According to a statement released by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Godwin Obaseki, the demolition followed Oboh’s arrest and subsequent confession to his involvement in multiple kidnapping incidents. Oboh allegedly admitted to receiving N800,000 as his share from a recent kidnapping operation.
In a statement provided by the government, Oboh lamented his actions: “My name is Odianosen Oboh. This house was built by my father, but I completed it. I joined my friend, Epama, in kidnapping a man. We abducted him from Ekpoma, and when the vehicle we were using broke down, I transported him on my motorcycle. After holding him for three days in the bush, we received a N5 million ransom. My share was N800,000, which I used to pay off debts. Epama was arrested, and I was later caught. Now, my house and my father’s house are being demolished because of N800,000. My family is homeless, and my children are suffering. I deeply regret my actions.”
Akhere Paul, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Affairs, oversaw the demolition and reaffirmed the government’s unwavering stance against kidnapping. “There is no peace for the wicked,” Paul stated. “The government will not relent until kidnappers are eliminated. If you are involved in kidnapping, your time will come, and we will come for you.”
SP Michael Anetor, Commander of the Edo Anti-Kidnapping Task Force, corroborated Oboh’s confession. “I personally interviewed him, and he admitted to the crime,” Anetor confirmed. “He participated once with Palmer, whose house was also demolished. We will not rest until kidnapping is completely eradicated in Edo State.”
The Edo State government has consistently maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards kidnapping. The demolition of Oboh’s property serves as a stark reminder that those involved in such criminal activities will face severe consequences, including the forfeiture of assets acquired through illicit means.
