Edo train kidnap: abductors demand N620m ransom for 31 victims

Edo train kidnap: abductors demand N620m ransom for 31 victims

•Ex-lawmaker, magistrate abducted

Culprits who kidnapped 31 persons at the Tom Ikimi/EkehenTrain Station in Igueben, Edo State, have demanded N20 million ransom for each of the 31 victims, totaling N620 million.

The gunmen also dismissed claims by the government that six victims were rescued, insisting that the 31 victims were intact in their den.

Commissioner for Communication and Orientation Chris Nehikhare had said six victims of the attack were rescued earlier today (yesterday) while 25 remain with the abductors.

Nehikhare, who said he gave the government’s official position, in collaboration with security agencies, refused to give details of the rescue operations.

Executive Director of Esan Youth for Good Governance and Social Justice, Comrade Benson Odia, last night confirmed that the kidnappers had contacted some victims’ families and demanded ‘a non-negotiable’ N20 million ransom for each person.

He said: “I can confirm that the kidnappers have demanded N20 million from each of the 31 victims still being held, totaling N620 million. This is absurd and I do not know where the poor people will raise that.”

Police spokesperson Chidi Nwabuzor pleaded for more time to confirm the claim on ransom, while the Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Dankwara, could not be reached for confirmation.

A former member of the Edo State House of Assembly, Festus Edughele, was also yesterday kidnapped. 

Edughele, who hails from Ubeaja, Esan Southeast Local Government Area, was abducted at Ugo in Orhionmwon council, on his way to the airport.

A former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Festus Ebea, confirmed Edughele’s kidnap on phone. He described the incident as ‘very sad and really unfortunate’.

Ebea said: “Edughele was kidnapped this (yesterday) morning while returning from Orhionmwon to Benin City. He had intended to take the train from Ubeaja to Abuja, but he could not do so, since the train service had been suspended following Saturday’s incident.

“The family is aware and the police have been informed. We hope action will be taken to rescue him.”

Police spokesperson Chidi Nwabuzor could not be reached last night for comments and confirmation.

President of the Igueben Area Customary Court, Mrs. Precious Aigbonoga, was also kidnapped yesterday morning at Ugoneki, on her way to court.

Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin branch (Lion Bar), Festus Usiobaifo, said the association wants her immediate rescue.