A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Mr. Wale Oriade, has regained his freedom after spending 39 days in the custody of his abductors. His release, which occurred on Saturday, has brought relief to party members, family, and residents who had been deeply worried since his abduction.
The Public Relations Officer of the APC in Oyo State, Mr. Wale Sadare, confirmed the development to The PUNCH Online in a telephone conversation from Ibadan, the state capital. “Yes, I can confirm it. He (Oriade) has been released,” Sadare stated, without providing further details on the circumstances surrounding his freedom.
Mr. Oriade was kidnapped on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at about 7:06 pm at his office located within the PJ Square Shopping Complex, beside the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) station at Elewure, along Iyana Ajanla on the Akala Expressway, New Garage area of Ibadan.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the ers arrived at the scene in a blue Micra vehicle with two occupants. According to them, the driver remained in the car while an armed accomplice stormed the office, forcibly seized Oriade, and bundled him into the waiting vehicle before speeding off. The boldness and precision of the operation sparked fear and concern among residents and business owners in the area.
“The nature of the and the precision with which it was carried out have caused deep concern within his community,” an eyewitness said.
Further investigations revealed that a ransom was paid to secure Oriade’s release, although the exact amount remains undisclosed. His abduction and eventual release have once again highlighted the persistent challenge of kidnapping and insecurity in parts of the country, prompting renewed calls for improved security measures to protect citizens.
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I wonder if ransom was paid for his release. Its a relief hes safe now. Glad hes back.
I wonder if the ransom was paid or if there was a rescue mission. Glad hes safe though!
Do you think ransom payments encourage more kidnappings, or are they a necessary evil in securing the release of hostages?
Wow, such a relief that Wale Oriade is safe! But should we negotiate with kidnappers? What do you think?
I wonder if the ransom was paid for Oriades release. Its a murky world out there. Glad hes safe now.
Do you think the government is doing enough to combat the rising cases of kidnapping in the country? Lets discuss.
I cant believe he was held captive for so long! The government needs to step up security in Nigeria.
Wow, I cant believe hes finally free! Do you think the government needs to do more to tackle kidnapping in Nigeria?
I wonder if the authorities are doing enough to tackle the issue of kidnapping in Nigeria. Its becoming too frequent.