Abducted PDP Chairman in Lagos Regains Freedom

Aivoji, along with several other party leaders, was abducted at the Ogere area of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway while returning from the party’s Stakeholders’ Zonal Caucus meeting organized by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan, the state capital.

The news of his release was announced by the State Publicity Secretary, Hakeem Amode, in a brief statement issued around 1:15 am on Monday. Amode stated, "Lagos State PDP Chairman released by the kidnappers."

The circumstances surrounding his release and any ransom payments made were not immediately disclosed in the statement. The incident had raised concerns about the safety of political figures in the region, and Aivoji's return to safety has been a relief for the Lagos State PDP.

“Hon Philip Olabode Aivoji the Lagos State PDP Chairman is free at last after 4days in the kidnappers’ den.

“We use this opportunity to appreciate your prayers most importantly because God’s mercy was visible all the way.

“Thank you all for your concerns and prayers.”

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, has also confirmed the release of Aivoji, in the early hours of today.

Speaking with our correspondent on Monday, Alamutu said, “Yes, he has been released in the early hours of today, but I don’t have information on the payment of any ransom.”

In an earlier statement, the police disclosed how its operatives, who got wind of the nefarious activities of the kidnappers, raced to the scene with an Army patrol on transit and were able to rescue nine persons.

However, they noted that one of the victims, Bilikisu Kazeem, aged 37, died of a bullet wound.