The Nigeria Labour Congress Chairman in Cross River, Com Ben Ukpebi who was kidnapped six days ago has been released.
A source disclosed that the union leader was freed after a ransom of 5million naira was paid to his captors.
It was gathered that he was released at about 9 pm on Sunday night after the family was able to pay 5 million to his abductors who earlier demanded 20million naira.
He was kidnapped on Tuesday evening from his residence at CROSPIL estate at Akpabuyo LGA, of the state.
Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Irene Ugbo, confirmed the release of the NLC chairman in a telephone interview with NAN on Monday in Calabar.
Ugo told NAN that the Chairman was released by a combined team of security agencies in the state.
According to her, the Chairman was currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Calabar.
The PRO however, did not disclose if any ransom was paid for his release, but added that he was released unhurt.
“As we speak, the Chairman of NLC was released last night. He is currently receiving medication in a hospital in Calabar,” she said.
Also, Dr Alfred Mboto, Permanent Secretary on Security in Governor’s Office, told NAN that the Chairman was released unhurt.
On his part, Mr Ani Esin, the State Security Adviser for Southern Cross River, said that Ukpepi was released by the efforts of government and security agencies in the state.
