Controversy trails Anambra PDP chairman’s kidnap

Police say knowledge of kidnap derived from newspapers

Controversy has trailed the kidnap of the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Anambra State, Kenneth Emeakayi.

Mr. Emeakayi was reportedly kidnapped on Monday by gunmen on his way to Awka from his hometown, Okija, Anambra State.

The gubernatorial candidate of the PDP in the November 16 Anambra election, Tony Nwoye, told PREMIUM TIMES that he was still gathering details to confirm the kidnap, while a source at the party’s headquarters confirmed that the party was aware of Mr. Emeakayi’s kidnap.

“I was communicated on the same issue (kidnap) two days ago, I have been told that my state chairman was kidnapped. I spoke to his cousin who is also his lawyer and he told me the same thing. I’m trying to get in touch, I’ve also called the police, ” Mr. Nwoye said.

The Anambra State Police Command, however, said no one has reported the party chairman’s kidnap to it.

The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Emeka Chukwuemeka, said the command only heard about Mr. Emeakayi’s kidnap like every other Nigerian from the dailies.

“It’s in the paper everywhere today, read it up. Do you need any other confirmation? The update is that I’ve heard it like you heard it. The matter has not been officially reported to the police, ” Mr. Chukwuemeka said on Tuesday morning.

On Saturday, Mr. Emeakayi complained about the low turn out of voters during the supplementary Anambra gubernatorial election.

He also said the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, should not have allowed the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, gubernatorial candidate, Willie Obiano, to participate in the election because of his alleged multiple registration.

Mr. Obiano has since been announced as the governor-elect in Anambra and was on Monday issued with a certificate of return.