John Obi Mikel's father alive and free after kidnapping ordeal

John Obi Mikel's father has been released by the kidnappers who abducted him 10 days ago, the Chelsea midfielder's agent has confirmed.

Michael Obi, who runs a transport company, had not been seen or heard from since he failed to return home from work in Jos, the capital of Plateau State in central Nigeria, on August 12.



He is thought to have been found in Kano, 180 miles north of where he was abducted and reports in Nigeria claim his abductors have been arrested by police.

Mikel's management company SEM released a statement confirming that the Nigerian international's father had been released.

"SEM are delighted to confirm that earlier today Michael Obi called his family to advise them that he had been released by his abductors," the statement read.

"SEM have waited until now to release this information, to ensure that Michael was safe. John Obi Mikel would like to thank everyone in Nigeria, his family & friends, Chelsea FC & their fans & his agents for their total support during this terrible time. A full statement of the situation will be released by SEM tomorrow morning."

The statement does not reveal whether a ransom was paid.


Michael Obi is reported to have told the BBC shortly after his release: "I am very stressed."

Mikel continued to play for Chelsea during his father's disappearance, appearing in the Blues' Barclays Premier League opener at Stoke before their home 2-1 win over West Brom on Saturday.

Chelsea released a statement tonight offering their support for Mikel's family.

"All at Chelsea Football Club are delighted that John Mikel Obi's father, Michael, has been found safe in Nigeria," the statement read.

"Mikel has shown outstanding commitment and professionalism during this most difficult of times, and the club will continue to offer its full support to him and his family."