Kidnapped judge and driver from Akwa Ibom released
Justice Joy Unwana of the Akwa Ibom State High Court and her driver, Idorinyin Ekanem, who were kidnapped by gunmen last Monday, have been released after spending five days in captivity.
The incident occurred as the judge and her driver were returning to Uyo after a court session in Oron Local Government Area.
Tragically, the police orderly, ThankGod Ekanem, lost his life during the kidnapping incident that took place around 8 pm along the Okobo-Esuk Inwang-Ndon Ebom Road.
In solidarity with Justice Unwana, members of the Nigerian Bar Association, particularly the Oron branch where she serves as a judge, protested the incident and temporarily shut down court activities.
The state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Ini Ememobong, announced the release in a statement on Saturday. Governor Umo Eno expressed gratitude for the safe return of the judge and thanked security agencies for their swift response and dedication.
Governor Eno, acknowledging the trauma that Justice Unwana must have endured during her captivity, reassured the public of his government’s commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
He emphasized that the state, under his leadership, would not tolerate criminal activities, urging security operatives to intensify their surveillance.
The governor specifically commended the Ministry of Internal Security for its strategic coordination and utilization of local intelligence in addressing security issues.
In her response, Justice Unwana expressed appreciation to the governor for his concern and efforts in securing her release.
She recounted the harrowing experience during captivity and offered prayers that no one else should undergo such a terrible ordeal.
Justice Unwana and her driver are currently undergoing debriefing and receiving medical attention as they recover from the traumatic incident.