Obaseki’s ex-commissioner escapes kidnappers’ attack

Godwin Obaseki
Obaseki

A former commissioner for oil and gas in Edo State Joseph Ikpea escaped abduction after gunmen reportedly attacked his convoy on Sunday along the Igbanke/Agbor Road.

News of the attack reached the press on Tuesday.

Mr Ikpea said he attended the Ojirua of Irrua 50th coronation anniversary on Saturday when the attack occurred on his return.

Ikpea resigned from Governor Godwin Obaseki’s cabinet in September 2020, citing lack of trust and respect.

“I was sleeping when the incident occurred, but according to my personal assistant and the escort, the attackers were between eight and 12 in number with black uniform and bulletproof jackets,” he told PUNCH.

“Surprisingly, they carried out the attack at a regular police checkpoint. However, the policemen, who were supposed to be at that checkpoint, came a few minutes later from where they had gone to eat.”