University Official Released After Abduction, Traditional Ruler Kidnapped
University official freed after 26-day abduction, traditional ruler kidnapped in separate incident in Cross River State
Chukwuebuka Aniakor 
In a recent development, Professor Patrick Egaga, Director of Servicom at the University of Calabar (Unical), has been released after 26 days in captivity. He was abducted from the institution’s staff quarters on November 12, 2023. The abductors had demanded a ransom of N50 million.
In a separate incident, HRM Maurice Edet, the traditional ruler of Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River, was abducted by gunmen at his residence in Asin ufot, Ayamba Ikot Akriba community. The abduction, which occurred on Sunday, lasted several hours and resulted in the death of an aide to the traditional ruler. The aide was reportedly killed while trying to resist the kidnappers.
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The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Irene Ugbo, confirmed the incident but stated that full details of the abduction were yet to be provided.
Akpabuyo, known for its notoriety, is located less than 15 kilometers from Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State.
