Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area, Chief Bright Abeke, has been released by his abductors after spending 10 harrowing days in captivity.
The politician was snatched in a daring evening attack on April 10, 2026, at the Debrofred Guest House (formerly Debro Fred Guest House) along Owumi Road in Sapele. Eyewitnesses recounted a scene of pandemonium as about 15 gunmen stormed the premises in a Range Rover SUV and other vehicles, shooting indiscriminately to scatter guests and bystanders.
In a brave bid to thwart the raid, local vigilante member Ufuoma and another security aide suffered gunshot wounds while confronting the assailants.
Delta State Police Command, under Commissioner Yemi Oyeniyi, swiftly mobilized a robust rescue effort. Investigators later recovered a vehicle linked to the kidnappers at Ogorode Waterside, hinting at a possible riverine escape route.
Abeke’s release came on April 20, 2026, as confirmed by reports from The Sun Nigeria and The Nation. A viral photo circulating online showed him shortly after freedom, posing with the Chairman of Ughelli North LGA.
Details on any ransom payment remain unconfirmed officially, but the incident has ignited fresh alarms over escalating insecurity in Sapele and surrounding areas, prompting calls for heightened security measures.
Police are continuing investigations into the matter.