By Ushang Ewa
Ten (10) days after Cross River water resources commissioner, Gabriel Odu-Oji was kidnapped by gunmen along Mayne Avenue in Calabar South local government area of southern Cross River State, authorities continue hoarding information surrounding the incident.
CrossRiverWatch findings reveal that the Toyota Prado SUV belonging to Odu-Oji was recovered a day after the kidnap with his female lover, whom he went to visit still in the custody of Nigeria’s secret police, the Department of Secret Services (DSS).
The spokesperson of the Cross River Police command, ASP Irene Ugbo told CrossRiverWatch that the vehicle was recovered within the metropolis a day after, in a different location.
“Yes, immediately he was kidnapped on April 9, the next day, we (The Police) were able to recover the vehicle,” ASP Irene said.
She however declined to mention where exactly but said investigations are ongoing.
Meanwhile, efforts to get comments from Government spokespersons has continuously proved abortive with all claiming the State Security Adviser was working with relevant security bodies to ensure his release.
But, CrossRiverWatch gathered there may be two teams working on the case; a team led by the DSS and SSA and the Police with the Governor said to be favorably disposed to the inclinations of the DSS and SSA team often referred to as ‘the government team’.
A source at government house told CrossRiverWatch that this can fast track the release of Mr. Odu-Oji and could also slow the process if intelligence sharing is not efficient.
Mr. Odu-Oji was kidnapped on the morning of Sunday, April 9, 2017 barely 24 hours after Governor Ayade had directed the relocation of the base of anti-crime outfit, ‘Operation Skolombo’ to the local government where he was kidnapped.
Early reports suggested he went to eat at a popular restaurant but subsequent findings show he was visiting his female lover and gunmen stormed in when both were together in her apartment and took him away.
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