•Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo
The Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque in Edo State, Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, has denied the claim that he was rescued by the police, disclosing that he paid N6.5 million ransom before regaining freedom.
It was earlier reported how the cleric was kidnapped at Uromi on July 9, and a ransom of N30 million was demanded by his abductors, reports Daily Trust.
The police had in a statement signed by its spokesperson in Edo, CSP Moses Yamu, claimed that he was released following sustained pressure mounted by them.
But in an interactive session with journalists, the Chief Imam said contrary to the police claim, he paid ransom to the kidnappers.
“I am Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, the Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque in Edo Central, I was kidnapped on July, 9, 2025 along the Ubiaja-Illushi road.
“I got myself released by paying N6.5 million on July 13, but I was shocked to read in the news that I was rescued by the police,” he said.
He said upon his return from captivity, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Uromi Division visited him to gather information, which he provided.
He said after explaining what transpired to the DPO, he was surprised to see the police “trying to take credit for doing nothing”.
“My release was as a result of private efforts and the payment of substantial ransom and not the efforts of the police.”
He however expressed appreciation to those who prayed for him and showed concerns during his period in captivity.
