Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has called on the Nigerian Police Force to adopt the same urgency and professionalism displayed in high-profile cases when addressing security challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
Obi made this statement following the swift rescue of Mrs. Folashade Odumosu, the wife of retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Hakeem Odumosu.
On January 16, 2025, at approximately 9:45 p.m., four armed, masked men abducted Mrs. Odumosu outside her residence in Arepo, Ogun State. Her Lexus Jeep was intercepted, and she was taken hostage.
After a week-long effort, the police successfully rescued her, recovered a ransom of N10 million, seized ammunition, and neutralized some of the kidnappers.
Reacting to the operation, Obi commended the Nigerian Police for their swift response. In a statement posted on X, he said, “I commend the Nigeria Police for their swift and effective response in rescuing Mrs. Folashade Odumusu, the wife of retired AIG Hakeem Odumusu, who was kidnapped just a few days ago.”
He noted the operation as a clear demonstration of what law enforcement can achieve when properly motivated and supported.
Obi praised the precision and professionalism displayed during the rescue, pointing out that the victim was safely recovered without harm. He also acknowledged the neutralization of the kidnappers and the recovery of weapons and ransom money as further proof of the force’s capabilities.
However, Obi expressed concern about the disparity in how security cases involving ordinary citizens are handled.
He said, “While celebrating this laudable achievement, I urge the Nigeria Police to extend the same level of urgency and professionalism to cases involving everyday Nigerians – those whose plights are often underreported or ignored. Many innocent citizens remain victims of abduction, languishing in captivity without rescue efforts reaching them.
“This successful operation is a testament to the possibilities that lie within our security architecture when it is properly managed and prioritised. It demonstrates that, even in the face of challenges, a new Nigeria is truly POssible.”
