Florence Uwaeme
Tonye Cole, the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has called for the release of the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Okey Wali, SAN.
Wali was abducted on Monday along the East-West road by gunmen.
In a statement on Wednesday, Cole urged the police to ensure his speedy release. He also comiserated with the families of Wali’s aides who lost their lives during the abduction.
He said “I have received the sad news of the kidnap of Barr. Okey Wali SAN, a former Commissioner for Justice / Attorney General of Rivers State and the 26th President of the Nigerian Bar Association, after his convoy was attacked along East-West Road, Port Harcourt.
“Barr. Wali, SAN has served his community, Nigeria and the world in various capacities and has contributed immensely to the growth of the legal practice in Rivers State and Nigeria. Barr. Wali, SAN is a well-respected philanthropist who has spent his resources to develop his community, Akpor Kingdom and Obio Akpor Local Government Area.
“I plead with the abductors to not harm Mr. Wali, and passionately appeal that he is released to his family.
“I assure his family of our unwavering support through these trying times even as we join others in praying for his safe return.
“I commiserate deeply with the families of those who lost their lives during this sad incident.
“This despicable event is a sad reminder of the sorry state of the security system in Rivers State. We owe ourselves a duty as a people to shun all forms of violence, brigandage and criminal activities regardless of the circumstances.
“I urge The Inspector General of Police, Director General of the DSS, The Rivers State Commissioner of Police and The Rivers State Director of the DSS to ensure all hands are on deck to secure the immediate release of Mr. Wali”
