SAPELE: Tension has escalated in Sapele and surrounding communities following the abduction of the Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area, Bright Abeke.
The council boss was reportedly kidnapped on Friday evening by heavily armed gunmen who stormed a hotel along Owumi Road in a brazen operation that left residents in panic.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers, numbering about 15, arrived in multiple vehicles, including a Range Rover, and began shooting sporadically to disperse people before seizing their target and fleeing to an unknown destination.
During the attack, a member of a local vigilante group identified as Ufuoma was reportedly shot and rushed to a nearby hospital. His condition remains unclear.
The incident has sparked fear across the community, with residents and political associates expressing concern over the rising insecurity in the area. Members of the ruling All Progressives Congress have also been gathering at the scene seeking updates.
Confirming the development, Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, said the command had launched a coordinated operation to rescue the abducted chairman.
According to him, the Commissioner of Police has directed the Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit to deploy all necessary resources to secure Abeke’s safe release and apprehend those responsible.
Security operatives have since cordoned off major entry and exit points in Sapele as investigations intensify.
The abduction reportedly occurred less than 24 hours after threats of violence were issued in the area, further heightening concerns about deteriorating security in parts of Delta State.
Residents are now calling for urgent and decisive action by security agencies to ensure the safe return of the council chairman and restore confidence in local safety.
