The Chairman of Sapele Local Government ,Chief Bright Abeke, has reportedly regained his freedom after spending 10 days in the custody of suspected gunmen.
Abeke was abducted on April 10, 2026, in a brazen evening raid at the Debrofred Guest House (formerly Debro Fred Guest House) located along Owumi Road in Sapele. Witnesses described a chaotic scene where approximately 15 armed men arrived in a Range Rover SUV and other vehicles, firing sporadically to disperse guests and residents.
During the kidnapping, a local vigilante member identified as Ufuoma and another security aide sustained gunshot injuries while attempting to resist the assailants.
Following the incident, the Delta State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police Yemi Oyeniyi, launched an intensive rescue operation. A vehicle believed to have been used in the abduction was later recovered at Ogorode Waterside, suggesting the kidnappers may have used the riverine route for their escape.
While official details regarding a potential ransom remain sketchy, reports from The Sun Nigeria and The Nation confirmed his release on April 20, 2026.
He was reportedly seen in a viral photo shortly after his release alongside the chairman of Ughelli North LGA.
The abduction sparked widespread concern over rising insecurity in the area.
