Phillip Aivoji, the chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who was kidnapped along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, has been released, as confirmed by the PDP Publicity Secretary in Lagos, Hakeem Amode, in a statement on Monday, January 20, 2024.

Read also: Breaking News: Lagos PDP chairman, Philip Aivoji, kidnapped

Aivoji, who had been abducted on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at the Ogere area of the expressway, regained his freedom after spending four days in the captors’ den. The PDP leader was reportedly returning from the party’s Stakeholders’ Zonal Caucus meeting convened by the Oyo State Government when he was kidnapped.

Hakeem Amode, in the announcement, expressed gratitude for the prayers and concerns of well-wishers, emphasizing the visible presence of God’s mercies throughout the challenging period. He stated, “Hon Philip Olabode Aivoji, the Lagos State PDP Chairman, is free at last after four days in the kidnappers’ den. We use this opportunity to appreciate your prayers most importantly because God’s mercies were visible all the way. Thank you all for your concerns and prayers.”

Aivoji’s abduction prompted a condemnation from Amode, who called for immediate government action to eradicate kidnapping in the country. In an earlier statement, Amode highlighted the need for decisive actions, stating, “The abduction of Aivoji underscores the pressing need for decisive actions from the government and stakeholders to eradicate this menace. Aivoji’s abduction was a violent incident, and his current whereabouts remain unknown.”

Before Aivoji’s release, the Badagry International Film, Cultural, and Sports Festival (BIFIF) had called for calm and prayers for his safe release. Viyon Awhanse, the Founder and CEO of BIFIF, urged the people of Badagry to offer prayers and support for Aivoji’s safe return, emphasizing the need for unity in times of crisis.