Seven abducted indigenes of Imoga Community in Akoko Edo Local Government were released by kidnappers on Monday evening after the payment of an undisclosed ransom.

The coordinator of the Movement for the Advancement of Akoko Edo People, Bode Ekundayo, who disclosed in a message to PUNCH Metro on Tuesday, said that the victims had been reunited with their families.

His message read, “Victims have now been released after the payment of a huge ransom.”

However, when probed in a telephone interview on how much was paid for the release of the victims, Ekundayo

He also said that the eighth person who escaped during the kidnap is also receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

“I can tell you that they have been reunited with their family after the community secured their release. It is a sad experience, and we hope that they will overcome the effect.”

He also said that the police have been informed about the release of their indigene, noting that the community is happy about the return of their brothers and sister.

The royal father of Imoga, Oba Patrick Abudu, in a phone interview told the PUNCH Metro that he met with the victims on Tuesday and that the community is in a jubilant mood.

He said that a large entourage went to receive them at the border of the community and Okene when the news of their release filtered into the town.

He added, “It is like we are having a special festival in the community. Everyone came out to rejoice and I have also met with them. A large entourage went to receive them, and I have never seen such in the community.

“Despite the sad ordeal, people were united to ensure our indigenes were released. With unity, everything is achievable.”

However, as at the time of filling the report, the PPRO of the Edo State Police, Eno Ikoedem, did not take calls to his phone, while a WhatsApp message to her was also not replied to.

Recall that January 9 victims were kidnapped on January 9 while lodging at Stay Boy Hotel on Imoga-Ibillo.

The owner of the hotel, also an indigene of Imoga, was also abducted along with the guests.

However, on January 11, the gunmen demanded N100m for the release of the victims. After negotiation, the ransom was reduced to N70m and later N40m.

On January 16, the kidnappers threatened to start killing the abductees if ransom was not paid.

This was to show the community and families of the victims that they “meant business.” (PUNCH)

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