Family of Kidnapped Retired Education Director Seeks IGP’s Urgent Intervention

The family of a kidnapped retired director of the Post-Primary Education Board (PPEB), Mr. Emmanuel Ofobrukueta, has appealed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take immediate action for his rescue, expressing frustration over his prolonged captivity.

In a letter signed by their solicitor, Frank Tietie of Forthright Chambers, the family lamented that despite efforts by the Delta State Police Command, Mr. Ofobrukueta remains in the hands of his abductors more than two months after his abduction.

Addressing journalists on behalf of the family, Tietie expressed concern that the case appears to have been forgotten, necessitating the appeal to the IGP for direct intervention.

According to the letter, Mr. Ofobrukueta, who retired six years ago, was kidnapped on January 12, 2025, in front of his residence in Mosogar, near Sapele, Delta State. The incident occurred a day before he was scheduled to travel to Asaba to process his pension payments.

The family suspects that a coordinated network involving close associates, ransom handlers, and the actual kidnappers may be prolonging his captivity.

They raised concerns over the handling of the ransom, which was reportedly paid just two days after the abduction. Intelligence from a private tracking company, they claim, also suggests possible involvement of individuals close to the victim.

“The Delta State Police Command appears to be overwhelmed by the kidnappers’ tactics in this case,” the letter stated, urging the IGP to take decisive action to unravel the abduction and secure Mr. Ofobrukueta’s release.

Describing their appeal as an “SOS call,” the family emphasized the urgency of the situation and their growing fears for his safety. They urged the police leadership to dismantle the criminal network responsible and ensure justice is served.

“The case should be escalated and given the appropriate attention it requires. We believe he would be rescued if the police in Delta State deployed sufficient resources, including manpower and tracking his movements,” Tietie said.

Expressing frustration, he noted that cases involving non-politically exposed persons often do not receive prompt attention.

He stressed that Mr. Ofobrukueta, having served the country meritoriously, should not be abandoned to his fate.