Okey Wali, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has been released by his abductors after being held captive for two weeks.
This was disclosed by Yakubu Maikyau, the incumbent NBA President, in a statement on Monday.
It was reported Wali was kidnapped on April 17 after his convoy was attacked along the east-west road in Obio/Akpor LGA, Rivers state. While Maikyau stated that Wali was in “good spirits,” he did not disclose whether or not a ransom was paid for his release.
In a statement, Maikyau expressed his gratitude to those who stood by the NBA and Wali’s family during the traumatic experience, including Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the Department of State Services, the Commissioner of Police, and the State Director of Service, Rivers State.
He also thanked members of the Bench and Bar for their show of solidarity during this period of trial, stating that their support, prayers, and goodwill were instrumental in securing Wali’s safe return.
However, the NBA president called on the federal government to do more to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians, stressing the need for a deliberate and appropriate investment in the welfare of security agencies, particularly the police, to enable them to function more effectively and efficiently.
Wali’s kidnapping is the second time he has been abducted in Rivers State. He was previously kidnapped on October 11, 2014, in Port Harcourt, the state capital, and released after 13 days in captivity.
As Wali recovers from the ordeal, Maikyau prayed for the families of those who lost their lives during the incident and for the quick recovery of the police officers who were injured. He also reminded the government that every life is valuable and must be treated with honor and dignity.
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