Kidnappers free Imo monarch, Eze Charles Iroegbu

There was joy on Saturday morning in Umueze Nguru autonomous community in the Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo state following the release of their traditional ruler, Eze Charles Iroegbu and his cabinet chiefs who were kidnapped on Wednesday.

Eze Iroegbu and five of his cabinet chiefs and palace guards were kidnapped while returning from a traditional wedding ceremony in the Ehime Mbano LGA of the state.

The monarch, who is the Chief Executive Officer of All States Mass Transit, his five cabinet chiefs and two palace guards were in three vehicles heading back to the kingdom when the gun-wielding men waylaid them and diverted their movement.

However the people became apprehensive after 48 hours as their abductors refused to establish contact with the family of the kidnapped persons or members of the community

The residents of the community were however relieved when the abducted persons joined them on Saturday morning.

A source in the palace told our correspondent on Saturday said that “the entire community received the news of their release.”

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Orlando Ikeokwu, could not be reached for comment