Edo State lawmaker Inegbeboh Eugene has accused the police of misleading the public by claiming credit for the release of the Onogie of Udo-Eguare, Friday Ehizojie, who was kidnapped in Igueben Local Government Area.
Speaking at the Edo State House of Assembly, Eugene, who represents Igueben Constituency, insisted that security agencies played no role in the monarch’s return, contrary to official claims. Instead, he revealed that the community paid a ransom to secure the king’s freedom.
“During the trying period, I personally informed security agencies about the kidnapping. But instead of taking action, they played hide and seek.
In the end, they had no idea how the traditional ruler returned home, yet they are now claiming credit, taking pictures with him, and making social media posts as if they were responsible for his release.” Eugene said.
The lawmaker questioned how security operatives could claim to have “rescued” the monarch without arresting any suspects.
“Did they just walk into the kidnappers’ den and bring him out? If they know the kidnappers, they should show us,” he challenged.
Eugene emphasized that the king’s release was solely due to the efforts of the community, who managed to raise the ransom. “No one should claim false glory. It is wrong,” he asserted.
The revelation, at the time of filing this report, has sparked criticism of security agencies and renewed concerns over rising kidnappings in the state.