The Edo Anti-Kidnapping Task Force has demolished a property in Uromi, Esan North LGA, belonging to Odianosen Oboh, for alleged kidnapping activities in Edo Central.

A statement on Thursday by Fred Itua, the governor’s chief press secretary, confirmed that the demolition followed Mr Oboh’s arrest and confession to his role in multiple kidnappings.

Mr Oboh allegedly admitted that he had recently received N800,000 from a kidnapping operation.

“My name is Odianosen Oboh. This house was built by my father, but I completed it. I joined my friend, Epama, in kidnapping a man. We abducted him from Ekpoma, and when the vehicle we were using broke down, I transported him on my motorcycle.

“After holding him for three days in the bush, we received a N5 million ransom. My share was N800,000, which I used to pay off debts. Epama was arrested, and I was later caught.

“Now, my house and my father’s house are being demolished because of N800,000. My family is homeless, and my children are suffering. I deeply regret my actions,“ the statement quoted Mr Oboh to have allegedly said.

The special adviser to the governor on security affairs, Akhere Paul, who supervised the demolition, reiterated the government’s commitment to eradicating kidnapping in the state.

“There is no peace for the wicked. The government will not relent until kidnappers are eliminated. If you are involved in kidnapping, your time will come, and we will come for you,” he said.

Commander of the task force, SP Michael Anetor, confirmed that Mr Oboh had fully confessed to his involvement in the kidnapping.

“I personally interviewed him, and he admitted to the crime. He participated once with Palmer, whose house was also demolished. We will not rest until kidnapping is completely eradicated in Edo state,” he said.

(NAN)