Ruler of Mbo Local Government Area (LGA) in Akwa Ibom State, His Royal Majesty Ogwong Okon A. Abang, has been released after spending nine days in captivity.
The monarch regained his freedom on May 27, 2024, following the payment of a ₦50 million ransom to his abductors.
Gunmen stormed the Ebughu Palace in Mbo LGA on the night of May 18, 2024, and abducted the traditional ruler as reported by Naija News.
The incident occurred amidst a wave of insecurity in the Oron region, with reports of frequent abductions and killings.The abduction of the Mbo monarch followed a similar pattern to the recent kidnapping of Dr. Esu, the paramount ruler of Oron LGA, highlighting the precarious security situation in the area. 
The police confirmed the monarch’s abduction but stated that the abductors had not initially made any ransom demands.
After days of uncertainty and negotiations, the abductors eventually demanded a ₦50 million ransom for the release of the monarch.
The family and community members were left with no choice but to comply with the demands to secure the safe return of the traditional ruler.
On May 27, 2024, the monarch was finally released after the payment of the ransom.
Reports indicate that he was taken to a hospital for medical attention, as his wife, who was shot during the abduction, was also receiving treatment and recuperating.
The abduction of the Mbo monarch sparked outrage and protests among the Oro ethnic nationality, which spans five local government areas in the Oron Federal Constituency.
Angry youths took to the streets to condemn the incessant cases of abductions, killings, and criminal activities plaguing the region.
The protests highlighted the growing frustration and sense of insecurity among the local communities, who have been grappling with the escalating violence and lack of effective security measures.
The release of the monarch has brought temporary relief to the community, but the incident has also reignited calls for improved security measures in the region.
Stakeholders and community leaders have urged the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to curb the spate of abductions and restore peace and stability in the area.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has vowed to prosecute those responsible for the abduction and has launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
However, the recurring incidents have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the security apparatus and the need for a more comprehensive approach to address the underlying issues fueling the insecurity.
The abduction and subsequent release of the Mbo monarch after the payment of a ₦50 million ransom have once again brought the issue of insecurity in Akwa Ibom State to the forefront.
While the safe return of the traditional ruler is a relief, the incident highlights the urgent need for concerted efforts by authorities and stakeholders to address the root causes of the violence and restore peace and stability in the region.
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