Gregory Maduakolam, the Assistant Editor-in-Chief at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Owerri Office, was freed on Saturday night after being kidnapped on Thursday.
Maduakolam, who had been missing for nearly 48 hours, announced his release in a phone call to his colleagues at 11:51 p.m. He confirmed that his family had paid an undisclosed ransom for his freedom.
“I’m free now. I want to thank everyone who was concerned and prayed for me,” Maduakolam told his colleagues, expressing his relief after the traumatic experience.
The Kidnapping: A Terrifying Ambush
Maduakolam was abducted in Irete, a quiet suburb near Owerri, where he had gone to inspect a property. He was with a friend and a house agent at the time of the attack.
“I went to see a house with an agent, and after inspecting it, we agreed on the payment terms,” Maduakolam recalled. “I was about to board a motorcycle to return to Owerri when five young men suddenly appeared and took me away.”
The kidnappers, who were armed and acted quickly, overpowered Maduakolam and took control of the situation.
Captured and Manhandled by Kidnappers
Once in their custody, Maduakolam described how he was roughly handled by the kidnappers. They seized his cell phone and used it to access his bank accounts.
“They took my phone and emptied my bank account,” Maduakolam said. “It was a terrifying experience, but I thank God I’m alive.”
His family, in an effort to secure his release, paid a ransom to the kidnappers. Maduakolam did not disclose the exact amount paid but confirmed that the ransom was what led to his release.
Support from NAN Management and Colleagues
Maduakolam’s kidnapping shocked his colleagues at NAN, who expressed deep concern over his safety. The management and staff at the Owerri office had been in constant communication with Maduakolam’s family during the ordeal.
In his statement, Maduakolam expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their support. “I want to thank the management and my colleagues at NAN. Your prayers and efforts kept me going,” he said.
A Growing Concern of Kidnapping
Maduakolam’s kidnapping is just one of many such incidents that have plagued parts of Nigeria in recent years. Kidnapping for ransom has become a serious crime in several regions, with criminals targeting both locals and high-profile individuals alike.
This is not the first time journalists have been victims of kidnapping in Nigeria. The rising trend has left many workers in the media industry, as well as their families, living in fear.
Grateful, but Traumatized
Although Maduakolam is grateful to be alive, the trauma from the experience is still fresh. His release was a relief, but the memories of his abduction remain vivid.
“I am free, but it will take some time for me to fully recover from the mental and emotional toll of this experience,” he admitted.
He added that, despite the fear and uncertainty, he was thankful for the support he received from all quarters.
NAN Condemns the Kidnapping
The management of the News Agency of Nigeria condemned the kidnapping and called for more efforts from the government and security agencies to tackle the rising wave of crime in the country. They urged the authorities to improve security measures and ensure the safety of Nigerians, especially those in vulnerable positions, like journalists.
The Fight Against Kidnapping
While kidnapping remains a serious concern in Nigeria, the case of Maduakolam highlights the need for stronger security and more effective measures to curb such crimes.
Authorities are yet to make any arrests in connection with the kidnapping, but investigations are ongoing.
A Close Call
Despite the ordeal, Maduakolam’s story has a happy ending, as he is now safe with his family. His kidnapping, however, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by individuals in parts of Nigeria, especially with the rise of criminal gangs targeting civilians.
“I’m thankful to God for giving me another chance,” Maduakolam said, reflecting on his release. “And I’m grateful to everyone who showed concern during my time in captivity.”
