The Chief Imam of Iyara community in Ijumu Local Government Area, Sheikh Quasim Musa, has regained his freedom from the hands of kidnappers.
It could be recalled that Sheikh Musa was kidnapped by unknown gunmen on Monday 25th, March 2024 at his house in Ilukpa, Iyara headquarters of Ijumu Local Government Area.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the release of the Chief Imam.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, confirmed the release in a statement released to journalists in Lokoja on Saturday.
“This is to inform you that the Chief Imam of Iyara Central Mosque Alhaji Qasim Musa, who was earlier kidnapped, regained his freedom yesterday night,” Aya said.
The cleric was reported to have been abducted by gunmen at his residence in Ilukpa, Iyara, Ijumu Local Government Area.
The gunmen arrived at his house, shooting sporadically before taking their victim to an unknown destination.
The Police, however, did not confirm if any ransom was paid to secure his release.
In a reaction to his release, the National President, IIyara Development Association (IDA), Alhaji Aliyu Badaki, also confirmed that Sheikh Musa was freed on Friday and has been reunited with his family while he is currently receiving medical attention in an undisclosed hospital.
Badaki expressed gratitude to God for bringing the Chief Imam back to the community alive.
“There’s no doubt that we must all be security conscious and report any suspicious movement, persons and groups to relevant authorities in a bid to expose the evil of insecurity in our Community
“We want to use this medium to appreciate everyone for their concern, prayers and support during the trying moment.
“Our appreciation goes to Kogi State Governor, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo, State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), Ijumu Local Government Caretaker Chairman, Alh. Haruna Ibrahim, Ijumu Traditional Council ably led by Olujumu of Ijumu Kingdom, Oba Dr. Williams Olusegun Ayeni for their unrelenting support and solidarity during the period of the unfortunate incident.
“Also, we salute the doggedness of security agencies, Religious Groups such as JNI, Council of Ulamau, CAN, Media and well wishers, who demonstrated uncommon love during this period,” he said in a statement.
Badaki prayed that such occurrence will never happen in the land again.
