CBN governor's wife freed by security forces within 24 hours of being kidnapped

SECURITY forces have successfully freed Margaret Emefiele the wife of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor who was abducted yesterday by kidnappers who demanded N1.5bn (£3.65m) for her release.

 

Mrs Emefiele, whose husband is the country's top banker, was kidnapped on Friday in Edo State by armed gunmen. Although the kidnappers had demanded for N1.5bn, she was rescued by a joint operation comprising the Nigerian armed forces, the police and local intelligence agencies in the Ugoneki area of Benin City.

 

She is said to be recuperating at the Delta State Government House, Asaba, before onward movement to an unknown destination. It is believed that she was rescued before any money could exchange hands.

 

Kidnapping for ransom is now a growing trend in Nigeria, with high profile public figures and their relatives the targeted victims. Among those who have had relatives kidnapped include former president Dr Goodluck Jonathan and ex-finance minister Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.