Two abducted victims, a pair of brothers identified as Isaac and Victor Olayere, taken along Adughe–Imoga Road in Edo State have escaped to freedom after their kidnappers allegedly fell asleep.
According to The Punch, the news was confirmed by the Okpahi of Imoga Kingdom, Oba Patrick Obajoye who narrated that the kidnappers had demanded 22 million naira as ransom.
The duo were however able to get access a phone and called their family who had begun canvassing for funds to pay the demanded ransom.
The brothers were abducted on November 8, throwing the Uma/Imoga community into confusion.
The Okpahi called on security authorities to come to the aid of Imoga, a border town between Edo, Ondo, and Kogi states which, he said, has become a hotspot for kidnapping.
“The two brothers were kidnapped on November 8 along Adughe–Imoga Road and taken into the bush.
“The kidnappers later contacted the family and demanded ₦22 million ransom, throwing the ancient community into panic. I reported the incident to the Ibillo Police Station, hoping the rescue effort would lead to their release.
“It was said that the kidnappers suddenly went into a deep sleep in the forest, which gave their victims the chance to escape. They were later found by vigilantes from Adughe, a neighbouring Kogi community that shares the same Okpameri language with Uma/Imoga.
“The vigilantes alerted Imoga residents, and our youths mobilised to comb the forest. However, by the time they got there, the kidnappers had fled,” the monarch said.
He added, “We need a police presence here. If a police post is created, officers can patrol the area regularly and reassure residents of safety.
“Imoga is the largest village in Akoko Edo in terms of landmass, and many herders have entered the area in large numbers. It is also a key link between Edo State and the northern part of the country.”
Recall, Dockaysworld reported the case of Aishat Wahab who finally regained freedom after being kidnapped in Edo state. She had gained freedom after payment of a hefty ransom.
Nigerians are seeking solutions from the government as the cases are on a rise during the festive periods.
