Olusegun Osahon in Yenagoa
Suspected kidnappers yesterday released a video, which showed a cousin of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Mike Ogiasa, pleading mercy and help from a shallow grave filled with water.
In the video that went viral, Ogiasa was seen pleading for his safe release from the captivity of his abductors
Ogiasa, who was Commissioner for Special Duties in Bayelsa State, was kidnapped on June 2 from his home in Otuabadi, Ogbia Local Government Area of the State.
The video, which was released by unknown persons, showed Ogiasa in a grave in an unknown area, while his head was covered with a black polythene bag, with his two hands tied.
Ogiasa, who sounded scared for his life, was heard asking his family whether his life was not worth anything to them, pleading that the ransom demanded by the abductors be paid to secure his release.
Authorities of the Nigerian Police have reacted to the viral video showing Jonathan’s cousin pleading for ransom to be paid to his abductors for his release
The spokesman of the Bayelsa Police Command, Asinim Butswat confirmed the authenticity of the video, saying the heads of security agencies have met on Friday night to brainstorm on new strategies to ensure he is rescued unhurt.
According to Butswat, the Police wants to assure the general public and families of the victim of their commitment to secure his safe release from the kidnappers’ den.
Ogiasa is a relative of former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, a former state commissioner for special duties (federal project) and a Special Adviser on power development during the administration of former Governor Seriake Dickson.
