Kidnapped Delta commissioner, Hope Eghagha, released

The Delta State Commissioner for Higher Education, Hope Eghagha, who was kidnapped by unknown gunmen on September 30, has been released by his abductors after 16 days in captivity.

Details of Mr. Eghagha’s release are still sketchy but the commissioner posted on his Facebook page this morning that he has been freed, promising to provide details later.

“Out of the dungeon of kidnappers after sixteen days,” an apparently relieved Mr. Eghagha announced with glee. “Thank God for answered prayers. Thanks to all Facebook supporters! More later…”

It is not clear whether any ransom was paid to effect his release.

Mr. Eghagha was kidnapped while he was driving from Warri to Asaba, the Delta State capital. The kidnappers reportedly shot and killed his police orderly before taking the commissioner away to an unknown destination.

Mr. Eghagha holds a PhD in English and was a senior lecturer at the University of Lagos before he was appointed commissioner.

His release has triggered celebrations among his Facebook friends. Five hours after Mr. Eghagha’s post, about 180 friends have posted messages of congratulations.

“Thank God for this,” one friend, Segun Omosule, wrote. “I almost gave up hope when there was no news of any ransom. Have my colleagues heard the news? Tell Fash, tell Banky. Tell Jade and inform the ex-OSUITES that the gentleman is back. Tell them at UNILAG. Sing the song and break the news.”

Another friend, Okey Ndibe, said, “I’m relieved. Cyril Obi and I have been very distressed. Thank God you’re out in one piece. And may the soul of your slain police escort rest in peace.”

Yet another friend, Mattu Tsitse, wrote, “God says in everything, we should give HIM thanks. Accordingly, we thank HIM for your ordeal in the last 16 days, more importantly, that you are alive to tell the story. We cannot thank HIM enough.”