Edo farmer pays N5.5m ransom to secure release after abduction

Festus Chukwuyem, a farmer in Edo State, was apparently kidnapped by gunmen while working on his farm. In order to rescue himself, the farmer reportedly paid N5.5 million.

According to information acquired by Obasanjonews.com, the incident took place on June 10, 2024, in the Ugomoson hamlet within the state’s Orhiomwon Local Government Area.

Speaking with reporters, the victim claimed that he had been abducted while labouring on his farm.

He claimed that although the kidnappers had first sought a ransom of N10 million, they were finally able to free him last Wednesday following the payment of roughly N5.5 million.

He claimed that the abductors informed him that he was being held captive as payback for the community’s killing of their cows in January 2023.

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Since the crime was later reported to the police at Okhu Division, Chukwuyem added that the Edo State Police Command was informed of the incident.

Speaking on the event, community member Frank Okunwaye urged the state government to address the widespread insecurity in the area.

According to Okunwaye, the residents—who are primarily farmers—cannot reach their crops as a result of the incident.

SP Chidi Nwabuzor, the Police Public Relations Officer, stated that the Command was unaware of the occurrence when contacted.

But before taking any more action, he suggested that the victim report to the closest police station.