“I thank all Deltans for their effort in ensuring my release from the kidnappers den. I sincerely thank the state government, the Commissioner for youth and above all l thank God almighty for my release. I will continue to serve God.”
These were the words of Nigeria international footballer, Christian Obodo of Lecce FC, a second division club in Italy, when Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan received him and Mikel Obi of Chelsea FC at Government House, Asaba after Obodo was rescued from abductors in restive Warri.
Meanwhile, Governor Uduaghan who frowned at youths involvement in kidnapping stated that his administration was committed to reducing Kidnap incidences and other criminal activities in the state to the barest minimum.
He explained that his administration was making frantic efforts to engage youths in the state and charged them to co-operate with government in order to curb criminal activities in the state.
The governor said government has made several efforts to tackle the issue of kidnapping and arm robbery in the state and called on Deltans to co-operate with security agencies by furnishing them with adequate information.
He noted that his administration has purchased enough equipment to help security operative’s fish out these kidnappers adding that intelligent gathering was very important in this aspect.
Governor Uduaghan advised Deltans not to pay ransom on kidnap victims as it would encourage those involved in the act to continue with the criminal activities.
“Obodo was a victim of youth kidnap… we did not pay any ransom for his release. The government has made several efforts to clamp down on kidnappers. If you know them tell them to leave this state, it will no longer be conducive for them to operate.
“I call on Deltans whose family members have been kidnapped not to pay ransom to these kidnappers again, our security operatives are working hard, that is why we are stressing on the importance of intelligence gathering. Most of the victims released were as a result of information from people.
“It is important that we know about our neighbours, if you have a neighbour who stays at home all through the day and goes out only at night and live an expensive life, it is mandatory that you report such person to security operatives.”
In a brief response, Mr. Christian Obodo thanked God for his release and appreciated the state government and security operatives for the effort made in effecting his release.
He also commended Deltans for their prayers for him during the period of his kidnap especially his church members and promised to be more committed to the service Of God.
“I thank all Deltans for their effort in ensuring my release from the kidnappers den. I sincerely thank the state government, the Commissioner for youth and above all l thank God almighty for my release. I will continue to serve God.”
Obodo advised youths in the state to fully embrace the empowerment programs of the state government and be productive rather than involving in criminal activities.
