Abducted ABSU DVC Hospitalised After 25Million Ransom Payment

After a harrowing ordeal lasting 11 days, Professor Godwin Emezue, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) of Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), has been released from captivity and is currently hospitalised. Professor Emezue was abducted on January 26 from a fueling station in Umuahia by unidentified assailants and held for ransom.

According to reports, his family paid a hefty sum of N25 million to secure his freedom after the kidnappers initially demanded N35 million. Despite an initial payment of N5 million, the captors grew impatient and threatened to harm the professor if the full ransom was not met. In a desperate bid to save his life, the family raised the additional funds, which were handed over to the abductors.

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During his captivity, Professor Emezue endured torture at the hands of his captors, who reportedly filmed their acts of violence and used them to intimidate his family into compliance. Fortunately, he was released on Tuesday night, although he is currently hospitalized due to the injuries sustained during his ordeal.

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This incident underscores the persistent security challenges facing the region and raises concerns about the safety of academic staff and institutions. Authorities are yet to make any statements regarding the rescue or any potential leads on the perpetrators.

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The release of Professor Emezue brings a glimmer of hope to his family and colleagues, yet it serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by criminal elements in Nigeria's society.