Bayelsa Judge Omukoro Regains Freedom After 12 Days in Captivity
Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro of the Bayelsa State High Court has regained his freedom after spending 12 days in captivity.
The judge, who was abducted on June 21, 2025, in Yenagoa, was released on Wednesday following sustained security operations and negotiation efforts by law enforcement agencies.
Omukoro was kidnapped in front of Kilimanjaro Eatery along the Melford Okilo Expressway in the Bayelsa State capital by masked gunmen in a white Toyota Hilux. The incident triggered outrage across the state and the legal community, with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) staging protests and boycotting court sessions in response.
Security sources confirmed that the Department of State Services (DSS) and the police led the operation that resulted in his release. Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the abduction, while efforts are ongoing to track others still at large. The kidnappers had reportedly demanded ₦300 million in ransom, but authorities said no ransom was paid.
Justice Omukoro, upon regaining freedom, was said to be weak and disoriented but in stable condition. He recounted his ordeal, describing it as mentally distressing. He said he was kept in a forest under harsh conditions and isolated throughout the period.
“I cannot begin to explain the confusion and distress I went through. It was a terrifying experience. I am grateful to God, the security agencies, and everyone who contributed to my freedom,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to the NBA, judiciary colleagues, and his family for their support during the crisis. The NBA’s swift reaction to the incident through protests and court boycotts was widely credited with putting pressure on authorities to act quickly.
The Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Alonyenu Francis Idu, confirmed the arrest of four suspects and said the police would ensure that justice is served. He added that the abduction was an attack on the judiciary and peace of the state and assured that a thorough investigation was underway.
While the Bayelsa State Government has not issued a formal statement, sources say Governor Douye Diri was briefed on the development and expressed relief at the safe return of the judge.
The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of judges and public officials in Nigeria, particularly in the South-South region. Legal professionals and civil society groups have called for enhanced protection of judicial officers and more decisive action against criminal networks targeting them.
Security agencies have pledged to intensify operations and intelligence gathering to ensure all those involved are apprehended and prosecuted.
