Residents welcome LG chair after freedom from abductors

The Chairman of the Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State, Bright Abeke, who regained freedom from his abductors last week after 10 days in captivity, made a public appearance in the Sapele metropolis on Monday with residents pouring into the streets to welcome him back home.

The Council Chairman who regained freedom on April 20, 2026, had reportedly been receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital before making his first public appearance in the town.

His return marked a major relief for residents after days of tension triggered by his abduction.

Massive crowd gathered at Amukpe Roundabout, where supporters, party loyalists, and residents welcomed him with cheers and songs.

The chairman was driven through major parts of the town in what supporters described as a “thank you tour.”

Dressed in a plain white Kaftan outfit complemented with a black hat, Abeke acknowledged the crowd with visible emotion as his convoy moved through Amukpe, Okirigwre, and the bustling Sapele Main Market.

Traders temporarily abandoned their stalls to catch a glimpse of the freed chairman, many expressing gratitude for his safe return.

The convoy later proceeded to his residence in the Ghana area of Sapele where the reception continued with a steady influx of supporters and well-wishers

Political leaders and stakeholders who spoke during the reception described the LGA boss as “a grassroots politician with strong community ties”.

Former Commissioner and aviation adviser, Austin Ayemidejor, praised the council chairman’s resilience, while Secretary to the Local Government Area, Raymond Overah, described him as “a man deeply connected to his people.”

Delta State Commissioner for Environment, Ejiro Jamani, noted that the massive turnout reflected the chairman’s popularity, saying “Sapele remains bright with him”.

Joyce Jemireri and former APC chairman, Dr. Cyril Ogodo, also commended the chairman’s leadership style, describing him as “open-minded and widely accepted”.

State APC Chieftain, Austin Arieja, and other party leaders echoed similar sentiments, emphasising that the show of support was a testament to Abeke’s political relevance and grassroots appeal.

Recalled that Abeke was kidnapped earlier in April when heavily armed gunmen stormed his hotel along Owumi Road in Sapele, firing sporadically before whisking him away.

Police confirmed he spent about 10 days in captivity, although details surrounding his release remained unclear, including whether or not any ransom was paid.

culled from punch