The Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque, Sheik Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, has denied the Edo State Police Command’s claim that his release from captivity was a result of intense operational pressure by its officers.
The cleric, who also serves as the President of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Edo-Delta Chapter, was abducted on July 7, 2025, shortly after observing one of the prescribed Muslim prayers around 2 p.m.
His abduction occurred near the Angle 80 area of Uromi in Esan North-East Local Government Area, as he stepped out to get food for his family.
Witnesses said he was forcefully whisked away by armed men, and his abductors reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦30 million for his freedom.
However, in a statement released on Monday, July 14, 2025, the Edo State Police Command announced that the Chief Imam had regained his freedom due to “intense and sustained pressure” mounted by its operatives.
The spokesperson of the Command, Moses Yamu, relayed the commendation of the State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, for the officers’ efforts.
The statement read, “The Edo State Police Command is pleased to inform the public that Moritada Obhakhoboh, the Chief Imam of Uromi, was released by his abductors on 13th July 2025 due to the intense and sustained pressure mounted by our operatives.
“He has since been reunited with his family and is in stable condition.
“The kidnapping occurred on 7th July 2025 at the Angle 80 area of Uromi and was reported to the Uromi Divisional Police Headquarters on 8th July 2025.
“Upon receipt of the report, the Command immediately launched a robust manhunt for the perpetrators, deploying tactical teams and collaborating with local vigilantes to track down the assailants with a view to rescuing the victim unhurt and bringing the culprits to justice.”
But in a swift rebuttal, Obhakhobo dismissed the police version of events, insisting that his freedom came at the cost of a ₦6.5 million ransom paid by his family.
Speaking in his hometown following his release, he said, “I was kidnapped on July 7, 2025 along the Ubiaja-Illushi road. I got myself released with the payment of N6.5 million on July 13, 2025.
“I’m also shocked to see a different person’s picture in one of the papers claiming it was me.
“On getting home upon my release, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Uromi Division visited me to gather information, which I provided.
“My release was a result of private efforts and the payment of a substantial ransom.”
Expressing his disappointment, the Islamic cleric accused the police of attempting to gain public credit for an outcome they did not influence.
“I just got information on the newspapers where the police are trying to take credit for doing nothing,” he said.
Nevertheless, he extended his heartfelt gratitude to all who prayed and stood by his family during his ordeal.
