The family of one of the freed NYSC members revealed that they raised the N6 million ransom through loans and donations from relatives, friends, and well-wishers. The abductors initially demanded N50 million for each of the victims but later reduced the amount to N5 million during negotiations. However, the kidnappers later increased the demand to N15 million before settling for N6 million.
According to the victim's mother, Alirat Wahab, individuals contributed between N5,000 and N50,000 to help the family meet the ransom demand. The family eventually negotiated the amount down to N6 million after repeatedly pleading with the abductors. Wahab said the parents of the abducted prospective corps members met in Ibadan to coordinate efforts to secure their children's release.
The family disclosed that representatives of the families were directed to travel to Imo State with the money and convert it to dollars instead of transferring it to a bank account. When they arrived, they converted the money to dollars and delivered it to the kidnappers. The victim's father confirmed that the parents collectively mobilized money to meet the demands of the kidnappers, with his family contributing N6 million.
The family's account contradicts the position of the Imo State Government, which has maintained that no ransom was paid for the release of the 20 prospective corps members. The victim's father insisted that the parents raised and delivered money as part of efforts to secure their children's release. The conflicting accounts over ransom payment remain unresolved.
The police confirmed the rescue of the 20 prospective corps members who were abducted while traveling to their NYSC orientation camps. The victims were reportedly traveling from Ibadan to orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states when they were abducted along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Imo State. The police said the victims were rescued at Amakohia Ubi Village following sustained search-and-rescue operations.
The victims were subsequently taken for medical assessment and necessary care, while security operatives continued efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the abduction. The family learnt of the release from the victim's elder brother, who had traveled to Imo State with other representatives. They were informed that the prospective corps members had been handed over after the money was delivered.
The incident highlights the growing concern over kidnappings in Nigeria, particularly in Imo State. The NYSC has suspended the deployment of corps members to the state due to security concerns. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the government's efforts to tackle insecurity in the country.
Key points
- The family of one of the freed NYSC members paid a N6 million ransom to secure their release.
- The Imo State Government has maintained that no ransom was paid for the release of the 20 prospective corps members.
- The police confirmed the rescue of the 20 prospective corps members following sustained search-and-rescue operations.
