12th September, 2013
The traditional ruler of Udo Community and an in-law to the Benin Monarch, HRH Patrick Igbinidu, has been reportedly abducted at his Udo kingdom.
The traditional ruler, (Iyasere of Udo), was allegedly kidnapped at about 7p.m. Wednesday by a four-man gang while playing draft with his friends close to his palace in the community.
He was forcefully taken away to unknown destination in an Audi car.
When contacted, Edo State Police Command spokesman, Moses Eguavoen, said he was on leave and could not confirm the report.
Chairman of Ovia South-West Local Government Area, Morrison Ogunrobo, confirmed the kidnap of the traditional ruler, adding that security operatives have been drafted to the area.
Udo, a small community in Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State, southsouth Nigeria is a significant community in Benin Kingdom, where all crown princes to the Benin throne must perform certain rituals before being crowned as Oba of Benin.
Kidnapping has become rampant in Edo State.
Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, Chief Mike Ozekhome, was released this morning by his kidnappers after 20 days in captivity.
—Jethro Ibileke/Benin