By
Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque, Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, has directly contradicted official police accounts of his recent release from captivity, stating emphatically that he secured his freedom by paying a ₦6.5 million ransom, not through police intervention.
Speaking to *SPARKNEWSLINE9JA* in his home town, Imam Obhakhobo, who was abducted on July 9, 2025, along the Ubiaja-Illushi road in Edo State, revealed his ordeal just after numerous newspapers reported his release, attributing it to a police press statement.
According to him, "I am Imam Muhammad Murtadha Obhakhobo, the Chief Imam of Uromi Central Mosque in Edo Central, Edo State. I was kidnapped on the 9th of July 2025 along the Ubiaja-Illushi road,"
"I got myself released with the sum of 6.5 million naira on the 13th of July 2025. I'm also shocked to see a different person's picture in one of the papers claiming it was me"
His revelation directly challenges earlier reports that lauded the police for their role in his rescue. These reports were based on a press statement purportedly released by the Public Relations Officer to the police command, Edo State Command, confirming the Chief Imam's release and implying police involvement.
Imam Obhakhobo recounted that upon his return home, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Uromi Division visited him to gather information, which he provided. However, he expressed dismay upon learning of the conflicting media reports.
He noted, "I just got information on the newspapers where the police is trying to take credit for doing nothing,"
The Imam made it clear that his release was a result of private efforts and the payment of a substantial ransom.
This development casts a shadow on the earlier police claims and raises questions about the accuracy of official statements regarding high-profile incidents.
The Imam however expressed appreciation to everyone for the prayers and concerns during the period.
