I wasn’t rescued by police, I paid for my release – Chief iman

The Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque, Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, has disclosed that contrary to the police claim, he paid N6.5 million ransom before  regaining freedom from captivity. Recall that the Chief Iman was kidnapped at Uromi on July 9, by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers who demanded a ransom of N30 million to […]

The Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque, Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, has disclosed that contrary to the police claim, he paid N6.5 million ransom before  regaining freedom from captivity.

Recall that the Chief Iman was kidnapped at Uromi on July 9, by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers who demanded a ransom of N30 million to effect his release.

Recall that the police had, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, claimed that he was released by his abductors following sustained pressure mounted by the police.

Speaking with journalists yesterday, the Chief Imam said contrary to the police claim, he was not rescued by the security but paid ransom to the kidnappers to secure his  freedom

“I am Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, the Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque in Edo Central, I was kidnapped on July, 9, 2025 along the Ubiaja-Illushi road.”

“I got myself released by paying N6.5 million on July 13, but I was shocked to read in the news that I was rescued by the police,” he said.

He said upon his return from captivity, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Uromi Division visited him to gather information, which he provided.

He said after explaining what transpired to the DPO, he was surprised to read in the newspapers where the police was trying to take credit for doing nothing,”

“My release was as a result of private efforts and the payment of substantial ransom and not the efforts of the police.

He however expressed appreciation to everyone for their prayers and concerns during his period in captivity.