Akari Loveday, the abducted special adviser on domestic affairs to the managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has been rescued from his kidnappers
Mr Loveday was freed on Sunday in a joint operation carried out by troops of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Department of State Services (DSS) and Police.
The special adviser was abducted on Friday along the Ayakoro Community waterways in the Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Confirming the rescue on Monday, Lt. Col. Danjuma Danjuma, spokesman for the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division, Port Harcourt, described the operation as meticulous and praised the synergy among the security agencies involved.
“The rescue was achieved through a meticulous operation conducted by troops of the 16 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in close synergy with the navy, DSS, and police,” Danjuma said.
The spokesman also credited the success of the operation to the support provided by residents of the Ayakoro community, who assisted troops by blocking all exit points, preventing the kidnappers from escaping with Loveday.
Faced with no escape routes, the kidnappers abandoned their victim and fled into the creeks.
“Loveday has since been reunited with the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, and leaders of the Ayakoro community. Meanwhile, troops are combing the general area to apprehend the kidnappers,” Danjuma added.
He further revealed that the General Officer Commanding the Nigerian Army 6 Division, Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Emekah had directed troops to capture the kidnappers and ensure the waterways are rid of criminal elements.
The rescue operation highlights the importance of community support and collaboration among security agencies in tackling criminal activities in the Niger Delta region.
