Kidnappers Demand N25 Million Ransom for Abduction of 10 in Ogun State

In a disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through the Ogun State community, ten travelers, including a recently discharged member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Olusoji Adedapo, were abducted by armed assailants in Ijebu Awa, a border area between Ogun and Oyo states. The kidnappers have reportedly demanded a ransom of N25 million for the safe return of the victims, raising fears and distress among their families.

According to relatives, Adedapo, who had just completed his NYSC service in Edo State, was en route to Ibadan when the abduction occurred on Tuesday. His cousin, Adeseye Timilehin, detailed the troubling circumstances surrounding the incident, highlighting that the family was informed of the abduction shortly after 7 PM, following the escape of one passenger who managed to alert them. Timilehin recounted, “He had been updating us about his journey until he sent a video showing the traffic situation on the road, which turned out to be his last communication.”

Reports indicate that some of the passengers may have been serving corps members, although police sources confirm that none of those abducted were currently serving. The fear of the unknown looms large as families brace for the kidnappers' deadline for ransom payment, with many expressing their desperation to secure the release of their loved ones. This incident underscores the growing menace of kidnapping for ransom in Nigeria, a trend that has raised concerns about security in the region.

“On Tuesday morning, my cousin left Benin City, Edo State. He was posted to Edo State for NYSC and did his Passing Out Parade just last week,” Timilehin added, highlighting the tragic turn of events for the young traveler.

The ongoing spate of kidnappings in Nigeria continues to pose significant challenges for law enforcement agencies, as communities grapple with the fear of violence and insecurity. As the families of the abducted travelers await news, the urgency for improved security measures in vulnerable areas has never been more pressing.