Edo monarch regains freedom from kidnappers

JETHRO IBILEKE/Benin

Kidnappers of Edo traditional ruler, HRH Patrick Igbinudu, the Iyase of Udo community in Ovia South West Local Government Area, have finally freed him.

Igbinudu was reportedly released Thursday at Uwelu, in Egor Local Government Area of the state.

The monarch who was abducted last Thursday, was easily identified by residents of Uwelu when he was seen walking in the community.

Some of the residents who claimed to have seen the traditional ruler, said he was looking very tired and haggard.

The kidnappers had allegedly demanded a ransom of N100 million and later reduced it to N10 million, but it could be confirmed whether the money was paid for his release or not.

Sources at the palace of the monarch said he held a brief meeting with his chiefs shortly after his release.