Abductors slash ransom from N100m to N30m for abducted worshippers in Benue
Suspected Kidnappers Demand Ransom for Abducted Worshippers in Benue
Nine worshippers from St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon, Ado Local Government Area, were reportedly abducted by suspected kidnappers early Sunday morning. The victims, primarily women and young individuals, were taken during a night vigil around 2:00 a.m.
On Wednesday, the kidnappers contacted the families of the abducted, demanding a ransom of N100 million. A relative, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that after protracted negotiations in the early hours of Thursday, the ransom was reduced to N30 million.
“This is the situation we found ourselves in now. It was only yesterday that they contacted us and demanded N100 million,” the source said. “After negotiation, they reduced the ransom to N30 million, which is what we are now working hard to raise.”
The family is seeking assistance from friends, relatives, and the public, appealing to individuals, corporate organizations, and civil society groups for support in securing the victims’ release.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the pace of rescue efforts. The relative noted that although security operatives have been deployed to the area, no progress has yet been made in apprehending the kidnappers or rescuing the hostages.
“Security agencies have been deployed to the area, but they have yet to apprehend the kidnappers and rescue our people,” the relative added. They urged the government to enhance security measures and increase personnel to track the perpetrators.
Attempts to reach Udeme Edet, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, for a comment were unsuccessful as calls went unanswered.
Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Sunday Oche, declined to comment on the ransom demand but assured that security agencies are intensifying their efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.
