Cross River Deputy Governor's Father Freed

There was jubilation in Cross River State Government House yesterday following the release of Etubom Essien Cobham, the father of the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Mr. Efiok Cobham, by kidnappers.

Etubom Cobham, 85, was kidnapped in the wee hour of last week Friday in his country home, Creek Town, Odukpani Local Government Area of the state.

There was no indication whether ransom was paid for the release of the traditional ruler to return to his palace even as the state government said despite the incident, the state was still safe for business investment.

THISDAY gathered that Pa Cobham walked into freedom on Sunday after the family members reportedly negotiated with the kidnappers for the release of the octogenarian who was kidnapped shortly on his return from medical treatment.

His son and the Deputy Governor of the state, who had kept seal lips over the abduction of his father, was said to have gone to the office yesterday with a smiling face following the release of his father.

The Deputy Governor was acknowledged by aides and staff of the governor's office when he arrived with thunderous greetings.

Although the course of the incident has not been established, conflicting reports had it that it was due to the role played by the Deputy Governor to stop oil bunkering in the state, while others said it was political.

Interesting, Etubom Cobham, who is one of the king makers in the Efik kingdom, was said to have been released from captivity the same hour in the night he was kidnapped.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, Mr. Hogan Bassey, confirmed the report, saying security operatives had closed in on the kidnappers before they surrendered.