Nine surveyors kidnapped in the Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State have regained their freedom after a ransom of N20 million was paid to their abductors.
The victims, who were taken hostage a week ago at a project site in Ilu-Abo, were initially held for a N100 million ransom. Following negotiations, market women and concerned citizens pleaded for a reduction to N50 million, but the kidnappers initially refused before eventually accepting N20 million.
Confirming their release, Pastor Ajibade Owolanke, brother to the Ejemikin of Akure, High Chief Oluwole Omotayo, stated that the victims have reunited with their families. Reports indicate that they were taken to various hospitals for medical evaluations following their ordeal.
The abduction sparked outrage in the state, prompting market women and youths to stage a protest in Akure, demanding urgent action from Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and security agencies to curb the rising wave of kidnappings.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
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