Bayelsa State High Court Judge, Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, has regained his freedom after 12 harrowing days in captivity.
Omukoro was abducted by armed gunmen on June 21, 2025, in front of an eatery in the Ekeki area of Yenagoa.
He was released on Thursday evening without any ransom payment, thanks to the joint efforts of security agencies.
Describing his experience, Justice Omukoro said, “I was confused in the kidnappers’ den. I still cannot come to terms with the fact that I was kidnapped and kept in the forest and exposed to cold.
“I thank God I was rescued alive. I can’t thank God enough; it will always be an unforgettable experience for me. I thank God I came out alive.”
The rescue of Omukoro was a result of a collective effort between security agencies, the judiciary, and the state government.
The President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Daniel Ayah, commended the security agencies for their prompt action, saying, “The rescue of Omukoro was a collective effort between the security agencies, the Judiciary, and the state government.
Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime, while three others are still at large.
The state Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, attributed the successful rescue to the joint efforts of security agencies, stating, “It was a joint and determined effort.”
Bayelsa State Director of the DSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi, and Commissioner of Police Francis Idu confirmed Omukoro’s release, saying he was rescued unhurt without any ransom payment.
The state government has also expressed joy at the judge’s safe release, with the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, praising the security agencies for their work.
NAN
