Seven Edo Residents Regain Freedom After Ransom Payment

By Idahosa Musa

Seven residents of Imoga Community in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State have regained their freedom from suspected kidnappers, following the payment of an undisclosed ransom.

The victims were released on Monday evening, ending days of fear and uncertainty in the community.

Confirming the development, the Coordinator of the Movement for the Advancement of Akoko Edo People, Dr. Bode Ekundayo, said the abducted persons had since been reunited with their families.

“Victims have now been released after the payment of a huge ransom,” Ekundayo disclosed in a message to journalists on Tuesday.

He, however, declined to reveal the amount paid, stating that he was not in a position to provide such details.

Ekundayo further revealed that an eighth victim, who escaped during the abduction, is currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital.

According to him, the community mobilized efforts that eventually led to the release of the captives, describing the experience as traumatic but expressed optimism that the victims would recover fully.

The traditional ruler of Imoga Community, Oba Patrick Abudu, also confirmed the release, describing the mood in the town as jubilant.

The monarch said residents trooped out in large numbers to welcome the freed victims at the boundary between Imoga and Okene after news of their release spread.

“It was like a special festival. People came out en masse to rejoice. Despite the ordeal, our unity made the difference,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command through it Public Relations Officer, SP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the release of the victims.