Kidnappers who abducted National Youth Service Corps members have demanded N20 million for each victim. The corps members were travelling from Bayelsa State to Abuja when the gunmen attacked them.
The incident occurred along the Aloma-Egane Expressway in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State. The victims were returning after completing their three-week orientation exercise in Bayelsa State.
According to Daily Trust, the kidnappers contacted the family of one of the victims after the abduction. They reportedly demanded N20 million for her release.
A family member confirmed the ransom demand and appealed for help to secure the victims’ release.
“One of our daughters who was kidnapped on her way from Bayelsa State to Abuja after completing three weeks orientation camp. The kidnappers are requesting N20 million naira,” the family member said.
Police confirm abduction
The Kogi State Police Command earlier confirmed the abduction along the route. The command said security personnel had rescued 11 victims during a joint operation. The rescued victims included the drivers of the two vehicles involved in the attack.
However, some of the abducted passengers remained in captivity. Police said security agencies were working to locate the remaining victims and bring them to safety.
The ransom demand has heightened concerns among families still waiting for their relatives. Meanwhile, relatives have urged the government and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts.
They also want the authorities to ensure the safe return of the remaining corps members. The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of corps members travelling between states.
This is particularly important as corps members return home after completing their mandatory orientation programmes.
