The Imo state government has on Friday returned a teenager and kidnap victim, Khadizat Labaran to the custody of Kogi state government.
Miss Labaran, ebirareporters.com recalls, was kidnapped at gunpoint around the popular Ganaja junction, in Lokoja, the Kogi state capital.
The gunmen were said to have blindfolded the 16 year-old her and whisked her to a bush before she eventually escaped.
In a recent statement released by the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Henry Okoye, he said the teenage girl was rescued by a Good Samaritan on 25th July, 2023.
Her rescuer saw her along the road within Nkwerre and subsequently took her to Nkwerre Police Station.
Receiving Khadizat Labaran on behalf of the Government, the Kogi State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Fatima Kabir Buba, commended Imo State Government and the Nigeria Police for returning the girl back to Kogi State.
Buba explained that her ministry had been in constant touch with Imo State to ensure that the girl returned to Kogi State safe and healthy.
“I have been communicating with the Commissioner for Women Affairs in Imo State, including the Nigeria Police for the quick repatriation of this teenage girl.
“Since we heard about the incident, the Ministry of Women Affairs under my watch has been working round the clock with my permanent Secretary and staff to ensure her safe return.
“We thank God that this has been achieved today. We want to thank every state actor who has made this a reality,” she said.
Meanwhile, the girl has reunited with her parents, Mr and Mrs Labaran who are both from the Eastern part of Kogi State.
