July 05, (THEWILL) — The Chief Judge of Bayelsa state, Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye, has expressed gratitude for the safe rescue of Hon justice E. G. Umukoro of the Bayelsa state High Court, who was abducted on Saturday, June 21, 2025, and had been held captive under distressing circumstances, until Thursday, July 3, 2025.
In a statement, Julius Nyananyo, the Head of Media and Information, Bayelsa State Judiciary, said the successful outcome is attributed to the tireless efforts of the Government of Bayelsa State, security agencies, NBA, organisations, community leaders and the judiciary family.
“The Chief Judge extends her gratitude to everyone involved in securing justice Umukoro’s safe return and further extends her commendations to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon justice Kudirat Kekekere-Ekun, GCON, and members of the national judicial council, Senator Douye Diri, Executive Governor of Bayelsa State and his Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Abraham Ingobere, for their pivotal role. The security agencies, particularly the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force, among others, for their strategic operations, synergy and dedication.
“His Lordship conveys sincere appreciation to the NBA under the leadership of Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and also acknowledges the support of the Yenagoa and Sagbama branches of the NBA, the judiciary staff union of Nigeria. Deep gratitude is further extended to the family and loved ones of Justice Umukoro, whose strength, patience, and cooperation remain deeply valued.”
The Chief Judge noted that the operation underscores the power of collaboration, patience and professionalism in resolving such delicate situations. He further said that as we celebrate this positive outcome, we are committed to addressing the root causes of such incidents and further ensuring the safety of all judicial officers in the state.
“We are happy to state that Justice Umukoro is now receiving medical and psychological support and requests privacy during this period of recovery”, the statement added.
The Bayelsa Judiciary expressed profound appreciation for the outpouring of support from the public.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
