Bandits are demanding N50million for three family members of former Daily Trust Editor, Ahmed Ajobe, who were abducted on Thursday evening in Kogi State.
Halimatu-Sadiya Tahir, Mr. Ajobe’s immediate younger sister, is among those kidnapped. They had gone to the market to purchase items for prayers for the late Aishetu Tahir, Mr. Ajobe’s mother, who passed away on Sunday after a long illness.
Ajobe, who was preparing for the seven-day prayers, was not immediately reachable for further comment.
The victims, including a male and two females, were taken while returning from a nearby community market in Awo, Ankpa Local Government Area, along the deteriorating Ankpa-Adoka-Markudi road.
A family friend, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed the ransom demand, to PUNCH stating that, “Yes, three of Ajobe’s family members were kidnapped at gunpoint at about 3pm on Thursday.”
The source added, “The kidnappers reached out on Friday afternoon, demanding N50million as ransom.”
The source further stated, “I can’t confirm if the family is in the negotiations because I had to leave the community for an emergency in Lokoja.”
“What I can say is that no amount has been paid yet, and the victims are still in captivity.”
The Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya, confirmed the incident, stating that the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the area had deployed his team to assist with the rescue operation.
He also noted that the state Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, had ordered the reinforcement of the police tactical team, ensuring all efforts would be made to secure the safe release of the victims and bring the kidnappers to justice.