The Professor of Engineering and former Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Osadolor Odia, who was kidnapped by some gunmen last Thursday has been released.
The wife of the Professor, Dr Amraibure, confirmed to journalists that her husband was released by his kidnappers on Saturday and that he had since rejoined his family.
“I am happy to confirm to you that my husband has been released by the kidnappers. He received treatment for injuries sustained and he has since been discharged from the hospital and rejoined the family,” the elated wife disclosed.
Dr Odia would not, however, disclosed if any ransom was paid to secure the release of the university don from captivity, saying: “I can’t tell you that. All I can say is that he is hail and hearty.”
The news of the release of the professor was received with joy by the AAU community, which has been apprehensive about the safety of the senior lecturer.
Odia was kidnapped on his way to his farm at Eboro area of Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of the state; and his abductors contacted the family, almost immediately to demand a ransom of N18 million before he would be released.
A source close to the Edo State Police Command also confirmed the release of the professor.
“I also heard that he has been released and that the family held a Thanksgiving service,” the source who pleaded anonymity said.
