Nyesom Wike, Rivers State Governor, has given the chiefs and leaders of Andoni Local Government Area, a 72-hour ultimatum to ensure the immediate release of three kidnapped expatriates of Raffoul Nigeria Limited, a construction company handling the unity road project in the area.

Wike warned that failure to secure the release of the three expatriates kidnapped by Andoni youths at the expiration of the ultimatum, he would formally withdraw government recognition of chiefs in the LGA and cancel the Andoni aspect of the unity road project.

He also warned other communities in the state to take measures to protect contractors and workers executing projects for them.

He said the same sanctions will be meted out to other communities where chiefs and leaders allow project contractors to be kidnapped by community youths.

It was not clear as at press time when the expatriates were kidnapped and what ransom has been placed on then as the telephone number of the state’s police public relations officer, DSP, Nnandi Omoni could not be reached. (Sunday Independent)