Dr. Joe Ayuwo, a lecturer with the Department of Linguistics and Communication Studies, University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), who was kidnapped by gunmen on February 21, 2021, while returning from a function in Andoni local government area of Rivers State, has regained his freedom.  Catch up on an earlier report here.

The spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, Nnamdi Omoni, who confirmed the lecturer's release on Tuesday, March 16, said the victim was rescued on Monday, March 15 and is currently receiving medical attention. 

Omoni said his release was made possible due to the intense and relentless pressure mounted by the Police, adding that all efforts are now geared towards ensuring the rescue of the traditional ruler of Andoni, who was abducted alongside the lecturer.