90-Year-Old Man Abducted In Benin As Edo Government Orders Rescue Operation

The Edo State Government has condemned the abduction of 90-year-old Pa Joseph Iduoriyekemwen, father of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Edo South Senatorial District, Hon. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen.

Pa Iduoriyekemwen was reportedly abducted by suspected gunmen from his residence in Amagba, Benin City, in the early hours of yesterday, sparking concern across the state.

Reacting to the incident, Edo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, described the abduction as “morally reprehensible” and urged residents to remain calm while security agencies work to secure the victim’s release.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Afegbua cautioned against immediately interpreting the incident as politically motivated, stressing that there was no concrete evidence to support such claims.

He also criticised suggestions that the state government could be linked to the abduction, arguing that such allegations could undermine ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity and secure the safe release of the elderly man.

Afegbua questioned the motive behind the abduction of a 90-year-old man, describing the development as particularly disturbing given his age.

He disclosed that Governor Monday Okpebholo had directed security agencies to work together and intensify efforts to rescue Pa Iduoriyekemwen safely.

The commissioner also pointed to recent efforts by the state government to strengthen the fight against kidnapping, noting that a special court established to handle kidnapping cases had recently sentenced four convicted kidnappers to death.

He described the latest incident as a major setback to the government’s efforts to curb criminality and reassure residents of their safety.

Afegbua assured residents that the government remained committed to protecting lives and property across Edo State, regardless of political affiliation.

He subsequently appealed to anyone with credible information about the whereabouts of Pa Iduoriyekemwen to promptly contact the relevant security agencies to assist in efforts to secure his safe rescue.

The abduction has continued to generate concern in the state, particularly amid speculation over whether the incident could have political undertones. However, authorities have urged the public to avoid drawing conclusions without verified evidence as security agencies continue their efforts to locate the 90-year-old man.