Falae regains freedom

Leader of pan Yoruba socio-cultural group, the Afenifere and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae, who was kidnapped by gunmen Monday in Akure, was yesterday rescued in a security operation led by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mr Solomon Arase.

Arase, who accompanied Falae back home at about 3.15pm yesterday, told journalists that no ransom was paid to secure his release.

The 77 year old did not speak with journalists but our correspondent gathered that he did not taste any food within the period while his abductors kept changing locations. He rejoined his family yesterday.

The IGP did not give details of the rescue operation, saying he wouldn’t say much for security reasons.

Daily Trust learnt that Falae was rescued somewhere close to Owo town in Owo LGA of the state. President Muhammadu Buhari had Wednesday directed the IGP to ensure Falae’s immediate release.

Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko expressed delight over the release, saying: “We thank God that he is back. Naturally, one is also worried that in Nigeria, the issue of kidnapping is taking another dimension for somebody of his pedigree to be taken away while working on his farm”.

As news of his return filtered into town, many thronged his residence to catch a glimpse of him. Family members and residents gathered to sing songs of victory, saying God had heard their prayers.

At the police headquarters in Abuja, police spokesperson, ACP Olabisi Kayode, said the IGP deployed police detectives to rescue Falae. She said she was not aware of the payment of any ransom for his release.