18th September, 2012
Jethro Ibileke/Benin
Kelly Odaro, the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Deputy Governor, Pius Odubu, who was kidnapped last Saturday night has regained freedom from his abductors.
Mr. Odaro who was kidnapped between the hours of 8 and 9 pm while on his way home from the Edo State NUJ Press Centre by two unknown gunmen who blocked his official car with their own car was released Monday night after paying undisclosed sum of money.
Kelly who is the first Edo State-based journalist to go through the experience of kidnapping however said his abductors appeared to be very familiar with his daily movement.
Narrating his ordeal to journalists in his house, the CPS said his abductors blind-folded him before taking him away in their car.
“They were nice to me, they cooked Indomie for me while I was there. While I was there, I prayed fervently for the media not to use the story. But still, my friends from abroad who read the story online called my family. I have gone there, and I have returned. Glory be to God.
“It was a harrowing experience. They always apologize to me, saying that the poor economy in the country led them to kidnapping,” he said.