Edo PDP Chairman Describes Traumatic Experience in Kidnappers’ Den

The Edo State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Anthony Aziegbemi, on Monday, described his experience in the hands of kidnappers as traumatising.

Aziegbemi opened up on his ordeal when the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, paid him a visit at his residence.

The Edo PDP chairman was abducted by some gunmen on March 15 and spent 11 days in captivity before regaining his freedom.

He was said to be on his way home at about 11 pm after a meeting at the state Government House in Benin, when the gunmen waylaid him near his house on Idaro Street, off Country Home Road, Benin.

Days after the abduction, a family source said the kidnappers demanded N500m ransom for Aziegbemi’s release.

It was unclear if any ransom was paid but Aziegbemi was said to have arrived at his home at about 3 am last Tuesday.

Aziegbemi told Shaibu and members of his entourage about the difficult moments he faced at the hands of his abductors.

Still shocked as a result of the ordeal, he noted that he would not wish anyone, even his worst enemies, to go through the ordeal he had in the kidnappers’ den, recounting the trauma and fears he endured during his captivity.

He said, “I don’t wish anyone, even my worst enemies, to go through the ordeal I went through in the kidnappers’ den. The experience was traumatising and again, I don’t wish that for anyone.”

In his remarks, the deputy governor said he had a personal bond with the Aziegbemi, adding that he was full of joy on learning about his freedom.

Shaibu said, “We came to celebrate Easter with our chairman and also thank God for his safe return home from the den of kidnappers. Don’t forget I am the godfather to Aziegbemi’s twin-babies which shows I have a personal bond with the Aziegbemis.”