Seven residents of Imoga community in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, who were abducted earlier this month, have regained their freedom and reunited with their families after a ransom described as huge was paid to their captors.
The victims regained their freedom on Monday evening of January 19, after a ransom was paid, though the exact amount was not disclosed.
Their release was confirmed on Tuesday by the Coordinator of the Movement for the Advancement of Akoko Edo People, Dr Bode Ekundayo.
“Victims have now been released after the payment of a huge ransom,” Ekundayo said.
He explained that the freed individuals have since returned home and are receiving support from relatives and members of the community.
Ekundayo also revealed that an eighth person who managed to escape during the abduction is currently undergoing medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
“I can tell you that they have been reunited with their family after the community secured their release. It is a sad experience and we hope that they will overcome the effect,” he stated.
Ekundayo added that security agencies have been notified of the development and that the community is relieved and grateful over the safe return of its members.
The traditional ruler of Imoga, Oba Patrick Abudu, also confirmed meeting with the victims on Tuesday, describing the atmosphere in the town as celebratory following the news of their release.
According to the monarch, residents trooped out in large numbers to welcome the freed victims at the boundary between Imoga and Okene after word spread that they were returning.
“It is like we are having a special festival in the community. Everyone came out to rejoice and I also met with them. A large entourage went to receive them and I have never seen such in the community.
“Despite the sad ordeal, people were united to ensure our indigenes were released. With unity, everything is achievable,” Oba Abudu said.
The Edo State Police Command also confirmed the release.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, acknowledged the development, saying, “Yes, I can confirm that the kidnapped victims have been released.”
The victims were abducted on January 9 while staying at Stay Boy Hotel along the Imoga–Ibillo road. The hotel owner, who is also from Imoga, was taken alongside the guests.
Two days later, the kidnappers, it was learned, demanded N100 million, which was later reduced through negotiations to N70 million and eventually N40 million.
On January 16, the abductors threatened to begin killing the captives if the ransom was not paid, heightening tension in the community before their eventual release.
Comments