Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has praised the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for successfully rescuing the wife of retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Hakeem Odumosu, who was abducted on January 16.
The victim was taken by four masked kidnappers while entering her home in Arepo, located in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State. Reports indicated that the abductors dragged her out of her vehicle and transported her through a swampy area to an undisclosed location.
Following the abduction, the Ogun State Police Command launched an investigation, deploying officers to track down the perpetrators.
On Thursday, the police announced that operatives had successfully rescued the victim and neutralized the kidnappers, recovering both ransom money and weapons in the process.
While expressing gratitude for the police’s swift and professional response, Obi took to X (formerly Twitter) on Friday to urge the NPF to apply the same level of urgency and expertise to cases involving ordinary Nigerians.
He pointed out that the struggles of everyday citizens often go unnoticed, calling for equal attention to be given to their safety and well-being.
“I commend the Nigeria Police for their swift and effective response in rescuing Mrs. Folashade Odumosu, the wife of retired AIG Hakeem Odumosu, who was kidnapped just a few days ago,” Obi wrote.
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“The operation, conducted within a week, highlights their capability to act decisively when motivated.
“What stands out is the precision with which the rescue mission was executed. It not only led to the safe release of the victim, unharmed, but also resulted in the neutralisation of some kidnappers, the recovery of weapons, and the retrieval of the ransom. Such a professional outcome deserves high praise.
“The Ogun State Police Command expressed gratitude for the technical support and cooperation received from the Force Headquarters and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
“The IGP, who displayed exceptional interest in the case, commended the Ogun Command for dismantling the criminal network behind the abduction.
“This success story underscores a critical point: with proper leadership, motivation, and adequate support from the top echelon of security agencies, the fight against crime can yield impressive results.
“As the country continues to grapple with rising cases of kidnapping and related crimes, this incident offers hope.
“It proves that these issues can be tackled effectively if security personnel are well-resourced, supported, and committed to their responsibilities.
“While celebrating this laudable achievement, I urge the Nigeria Police to extend the same level of urgency and professionalism to cases involving everyday Nigerians — those whose plights are often underreported or ignored.
“Many innocent citizens remain victims of abduction, languishing in captivity without rescue efforts reaching them.”