Mrs. Edith Thomas, the wife of Charles Kurobo, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, has publicly appealed for help after her husband was allegedly abducted by armed men. The incident, which occurred on November 19, 2024, has sparked concerns over the safety of Kurobo, a former aide to Governor Douye Diri and a vocal critic of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) and the handling of pipeline surveillance contracts by the Tantita Security Company, which is owned by former militant leader, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo).
Details of the Alleged Abduction
According to Mrs. Thomas, her husband was forcefully taken from their home along Opolo Road, near Saipem, at approximately 12:00 AM. She described the frightening ordeal, stating that their sleep was interrupted by gunshots and shouts demanding her husband’s immediate surrender. In the midst of the chaos, Kurobo gave himself up, fearing for their lives.
She further described the scene through a shattered window, witnessing a convoy of about 15 vehicles, some with police officers in uniform, others with civil defense personnel. Mrs. Thomas noted that the group’s presence felt like a complete invasion, heightening the fear and distress of the situation.
Efforts to Locate Her Husband
In her desperate search for answers, Mrs. Thomas and her family immediately went to the Bayelsa State Police Command, but were told that Kurobo was not in their custody and that they were not involved in the operation. The family’s subsequent visits to both the police and the Department of State Services (DSS) yielded no further information, with both agencies denying any knowledge of his arrest.
Expressing her deep concern for her husband’s safety, Mrs. Thomas appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and Governor Douye Diri to assist in locating Kurobo and ensure his safe return. She pleaded, “The Police and Governor Diri are the only hope I have to find my husband. Please help us before something bad is done to him.”
Background of Charles Kurobo
Charles Kurobo is a well-known figure in Bayelsa State, particularly for his leadership role in the Niger Delta Ex-agitators’ Leadership Forum, Second Phase. His outspoken criticisms of the management of the PAP and his stance on the surveillance contracts have made him a controversial figure. Kurobo’s political and public positions have raised tensions, especially in light of the growing influence of figures like Tompolo in the region.
The alleged abduction of Kurobo has raised concerns about the increasing use of force against political figures in Bayelsa State and the broader Niger Delta region. Mrs. Thomas’s urgent plea highlights the vulnerability of political critics and their families in a volatile political environment.
As the search for Charles Kurobo continues, his family remains hopeful that the authorities will act swiftly to locate him and ensure his safe return.
