The Office of the Governor of Anambra State has informed the public that Rev. Fr. Basil Gbuzuo, whose kidnap was widely reported in the media few weeks ago, has been released by his abductors.
This was contained in a release dated May 24, 2024 and signed by the Press Secretary to the Governor of Anambra State, Christian Aburime.
It would be recalled that the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha had issued a statement dated May 16, 2024 and signed by its Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prudentius E. Aroh, informing that Rev. Fr. Gbuzuo had been kidnapped on the previous day, May 15.
Below is the full text of the release by the Press Secretary to the Governor of Anambra State:
“This is to inform the general public that Rev. Fr. Basil Gbuzuo, who was kidnapped on 15th May 2024 along Nkpor-Obosi axis has regained freedom, through the onerous efforts of the joint security task team of Anambra State Government and well meaning citizens.
“The State Government will not rest on its oars, as we work to ensure that any person held in captivity is released unconditionally and unhurt.
“We also seize this opportunity to send a strong warning to all criminals, their collaborators and sponsors. The full weight of the law will be brought on all such persons who engage directly or indirectly in orchestrating criminal activities.
“However, note that the olive branch offer extended to criminal elements who operate in the mould of agitators is still open. They should avail themselves of avenues provided by the State for them to be trained, rehabilitated and integrated back into the society.
“The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo CFR, appreciates the contributions of all well meaning people in the onerous effort to make Anambra a peaceful and liveable homeland”.
Signed:
Christian Aburime
Press Secretary to the Governor
Anambra State
May 24, 2024
