Kidnappers release 7 Edo community members

From Tony Osauzo, Benin

Seven indigenes of Imoga Community in Akoko Edo Local Government Area abducted on January 9 by gunmen have been released after payment of an undisclosed ransom.

Coordinator, Movement for the Advancement of Akoko Edo People, Dr. Bode Ekundayo, said they were released on Monday evening and have been reunited with their families.

“Victims have now been released after the payment of a huge ransom”, Dr. Ekundayo said but stated that he was not in a position to disclose the amount of ransom paid.

“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”, Ekundayo said and explained that the eighth person who escaped during the kidnap is receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

Besides, he said the police have been informed about the release of their indigene, adding that the community is happy about the return of their brothers and sister.

Traditional ruler of Imoga, Oba Patrick Abudu, who met with the victims yesterday, said the community wass in a jubilant mood and that a large entourage went to receive them at the border of the community and Okene when the news of their release broke.

“It is like we are having a special festival in the community. Everyone came out to rejoice and I have 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”, the traditional ruler stated.

Confirming the release of the kidnap victims, the PPRO of the Edo State Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, said, “yes, I can confirm that the kidnap victims have been released.”

The gunmen who abducted victims while lodging at Stay Boy Hotel on Imoga-Ibillo, had on January 11 demanded N100 million for their release but reduced the amount to N70 million and later N40 million, after negotiations.

They had earlier threatened to start killing the abductees following delay in payment of the ransom.