Mr Mipuruaziba Akaragha, President of Ogbia Brotherhood Youth Council has applauded the gallantry and support of Ogbia youths that resulted the rescue of two kidnap victims of n Sunday.

The two staff of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) kidnapped on Friday were rescued on Sunday following a combined efforts of community youths and security agencies.

It will be recalled that Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa, Mr Francis Idu, had on Monday attributed the prompt rescue of the kidnap victims to actionable intelligence and support by the community.

Reacting to the development, Akaragha expressed his joy over the rescue of Mr. Akari, Special Adviser to the MD/CEO of NDDC on Domestic Affairs and Nathan Ogbuku, younger brother to MD.

The youth president expressed his appreciation to the youths of Anyama clan in Ogbia Local Government Area (LGA) for their voluntary effort and bravery throughout the trying period.

Akaragha expressed his position in a statement, issued on Tuesday in Yenagoa.

He equally commended the role played by the security agencies, Chief Joshua Maciver and Chief Ebiango Egai for mobilizing men and officers of the Tantita Security workforce in the rescue mission.

Akaragha noted that professional input by Machiver and Egai led to the rescue of the victims.

“Equally worthy of commendation is Otuoke Vigilantes led by Fred Ademe and Mr.Preye amongst others.

“Their collaborative effort in the operation that led to the rescue of Mr.Akari and Emmanuel from the kidnappers Den is greatly appreciated and example of what is possible when stakeholders unite.

Akaragha explained that the feat is a practical example of how teamwork and collaborative efforts by all stakeholders can go a long way in combating criminality and violence in communities.

He enjoined all to sustain this spirit going forward so that Ogbia kingdom would be free from criminality and violence.

“The youths deserve commendation for ignoring their comfort to sleep in the thick forest for two nights in an effort to free their brother from our common enemies,” Akaragha said.

He acknowledged the effort of the youths of Otuoke, Onuebum, Ewoi, Otuabula, Otuobhi, Ologeghe, Anyama, Ologi, and Ayakoro communities that played a supportive role in the rescue mission.

“Also worthy of commendation and appreciated are Chief Ebiango Okoba, Egain-Emafi (IV), who swiftly mobilized funds and materials.

“And Hon. Faith Ogidi, Hon Omosuo Nimi-wilson Irigha for playing a supportive role in the search team.

"Let me also acknowledge the tremendous effort of the paramount ruler of the Ewoi community who also joined the rescue team.

“I will not forget the role played by the Executives of Ogbia Brotherhood Youth Council Worldwide throughout the period of the search for kidnapped victims.

“You have shown me an uncommon love, and I want to thank you, especially my Vice President, Alex Gurenayam, who was part of the team that went into the forest," he said.

He said that the prayers offered for the safe return of the kidnapped by the Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro HRH Righteous Inegbegha was an indication that God answers the prayers of traditional leaders.

He said: "God, in his infinite mercies, has done something great to Ayakoro community.

“I want to sincerely thank the Almighty God once again, for this victory to Ogbia Kingdom and Bayelsa State at large. Indeed, together, we can stop illegality and criminality.”