The Anambra State Government has announced the release of an abducted Catholic priest, Reverend Father Basil Gbuzuo.
The priest was last week abducted at Nkpor, close to Onitsha, by unknown gunmen.
Press Secretary to Anambra State Governor, Mr Christian Aburime, who announced the priest’s release in a statement on Friday, did not share details of the development, but said that the state government has commenced work to exterminate all criminal elements in the state.
He said: “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.
“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.”
Aburime added: “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.”