October 30, (NaijaOnPoint Media) – Former senator representing Eket Senatorial District, Nelson Effiong, on Friday regained freedom from his abductors, after 54 days in captivity.
Effiong, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), was kidnapped “at a popular drinking spot” along Oron Road in Uyo on September 5 by suspected gunmen. He was reportedly whisked away in a Toyota Camryafter the abductors inflicted injuries on three others.
Akwa Ibom State Caretaker Publicity Secretary of the APC, Enyongekere Nkereuwem, announced Effiong’s release in a statement.
The statement reads: “The All Progressives Congress Akwa Ibom State Chapter wishes to intimate the APC family and the general public of the release of Sen Nelson Effiong who was kidnapped on Sunday evening of September 05, 2021.
“The Senator gained his freedom just yesterday, Friday, October 29, 2021, from the enclave and grip of the men of the underworld.
“It is our deepest concern as a party to register our sincere gratitude to God Almighty and all who contributed in one way or the other to facilitate his release and return to his family and party.
“We humbly pray to God to accord you all the commensurable blessings you deserve for identifying with us throughout the period of the predicament. We say a big thank you to all.”
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The statement did not note if any ransom was paid to the hoodlums to secure his release.
Effiong has not spoken to the press or released a statement regarding his abduction and time with the kidnappers, but security analysts and members of the APC said party opponents were behind the incident.
Police Public Relations Officer, Odiko MacDon, a Superintendent of Police, declined comment on the reported release of the former lawmaker.