By Peter Onyekachukwu 
……Diri Vows to Hunt Down Fleeing Kidnappers
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The atmosphere in Bayelsa State was filled with relief on Thursday evening following the dramatic rescue of Justice Ebieyerin Omukoro, a High Court judge, who had been held hostage for 12 harrowing days by suspected kidnappers.
Reacting to the development, Governor Douye Diri praised the swift and coordinated response of security agencies, especially operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), which he said mounted unrelenting pressure on the kidnappers, forcing them to abandon their victim.
“Let this be a warning to criminal elements,” Diri said in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, on Friday. “Bayelsa is not a safe haven for kidnappers or criminals. We will hunt you down.”
The rescue mission, which the governor revealed was carried out under strict directives to ensure the judge’s safety, followed days of intense tracking. Three suspects have already been arrested in connection with the abduction, while others believed to have fled during the heat of the operation are currently being pursued.
Speaking to journalists, Bayelsa State Director of the DSS, Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, and the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Francis Idu, confirmed the arrests and assured the public that no stone would be left unturned until all the culprits are brought to justice.
Governor Diri reiterated his administration’s commitment to security and peace, stating that significant resources have been committed to keeping Bayelsa safe. He also called for continued public cooperation and support for the work of security agencies.
“Security is not only a government duty; it’s a collective responsibility. I urge citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and work with authorities to protect our communities,” the governor added.
Justice Omukoro’s abduction had sparked widespread concern within the legal and civil society communities across Nigeria, raising fresh fears about the safety of judicial officers. His safe return has brought a measure of reassurance, but the state government has stressed that efforts to root out criminal networks in Bayelsa will not relent.
As investigations continue and more suspects are sought, the case serves as a stark reminder of the security challenges that still linger and the urgent need for sustained collaboration between the government, security forces, and the public.