The Edo State Police Command has announced the rescue of the kidnapped traditional ruler of Udo-Eguare community, His Royal Highness Friday Ehizojie.

The Onogie of Udo-Eguare, in Igueben Local Government Area of the state was kidnapped on Monday, 3 February, 2025 at a forest between Ubiaja and Udo community while on a commercial motorcycle. The okada rider conveying Ehizojie to his destination was shot dead.

The Edo State Police Command Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, who announced the development, said the victim was rescued on Friday, 7 February, 2025, following the sustained search and rescue operations by the police and vigilantes.

“The command is pleased to inform the general public that the sustained search and rescue operations has yielded positive result,” he said, adding that the Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, kept her vow with the rescue of the Onogie of Udo-Eguare community who was kidnapped on Monday, 3 February, 2025.

The state police image-maker attributed the traditional ruler’s rescue to the logistic support rendered by the state Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, towards the operations.

Yamu  also appreciated the vigilantes, hunters and other well-meaning residents of the state for their support and assured the public of the command’s commitment to the fight against crime.