Justice Ebiyerin Omukoro, a serving judge of the Bayelsa State High Court, has regained his freedom after being held captive for 12 days. He was abducted on the evening of June 21, 2025, at Kilimanjaro Eatery in Yenagoa, shortly after returning from a trip to Warri, Delta State.
His release was confirmed on July 3, 2025, though authorities and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) have yet to issue formal statements. Justice Omukoro described his ordeal as harrowing, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to securing his freedom. He recounted the confusion and hardship endured during captivity, thanking God for his safe release.
The judge praised the coordinated efforts of security agencies, the judiciary, and his family, noting that the collaboration between government, the Bar, and the Bench made his release memorable. Prior to his freedom, the NBA had declared a court boycott across Bayelsa State, condemning the abduction as an attack on the judiciary and calling for swift action to ensure the safety of judicial officers.
Security agencies reportedly made progress tracking the kidnappers through digital footprints, although no direct contact was made by the abductors during the captivity. The incident occurred near a police station, with eyewitnesses initially mistaking the abduction for a security operation.
The safe release of Justice Omukoro has been welcomed by state officials and legal bodies, highlighting the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation to protect members of the judiciary.
