Liberation Triumph: Abducted Lagos PDP Chairman Freed After 4 Harrowing Days in Captivity
In a remarkable turn of events, Phillip Aivoji, the esteemed chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who had fallen victim to a ruthless kidnapping on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, has emerged from his captors’ clutches, signaling a resolute victory for resilience and hope. The announcement of his regained freedom came through the PDP Publicity Secretary in Lagos, Hakeem Amode, in a concise statement on Monday, January 20, 2024.
Aivoji’s ordeal began on Thursday, January 25, 2024, when he was forcefully abducted at the Ogere area of the expressway while returning from a critical gathering – the party’s Stakeholders’ Zonal Caucus meeting convened by the Oyo State Government.
Expressing relief at Aivoji’s release, Amode conveyed, “Hon Philip Olabode Aivoji, the Lagos State PDP Chairman, is free at last after four days in the kidnappers’ den. We use this opportunity to appreciate your prayers, most importantly because God’s mercies were visible all the way. Thank you all for your concerns and prayers.”
The abduction of such a prominent figure drew immediate condemnation from Amode, who underscored the urgent need for government intervention to curb the menace of kidnapping in the country. In an earlier statement, he remarked, “The abduction of Aivoji underscores the pressing need for decisive actions from the government and stakeholders to eradicate this menace. Aivoji’s abduction was a violent incident, and his current whereabouts remain unknown.”
Amidst the distressing circumstances, the Badagry International Film, Cultural and Sports Festival (BIFIF) stepped forward, urging calm and collective prayers for Aivoji’s safe release. Viyon Awhanse, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BIFIF, emphasized the crucial need for community support, stating, “The PDP chairman needs prayers from the people of Badagry and support to facilitate his safe release.”
As the story unfolds, the recovery of Aivoji stands as a testament to the strength of resilience and community solidarity, echoing the broader call for urgent action against the rising challenge of kidnapping in the nation. The unfolding narrative serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by even high-profile individuals in the face of such criminal activities, urging a united front in the battle against this menace.
