After a harrowing week in captivity, the nine surveyors abducted by gunmen in Ondo State have finally regained their freedom. The victims, who were kidnapped last Tuesday while working at a site in Ilu Abo Community, Akure North Local Government Area, were released on Tuesday night under undisclosed circumstances.
Reports indicate that the abductors had initially demanded a ransom of N100 million for their release. However, after intense negotiations, the families of the victims were forced to raise and pay N20 million before their loved ones were freed.
Mass Protest Sparks Government Attention
The abduction had triggered outrage in the state, with hundreds of women taking to the streets of Akure to protest against the rising wave of kidnappings. The demonstrators, concerned about the safety of residents, called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to take swift action to address the insecurity in the state.
The protest underscored growing frustrations over the repeated cases of abduction in the region, with many demanding stronger security measures to curb the menace.
Confirmation of Release
A prominent Akure chief, Pastor Ajibade Owolanke, who is the brother to the Ejemikin of Akure, High Chief Oluwole Omotayo, confirmed the release of the surveyors to journalists in Akure.
He revealed that the victims were now safe and had returned to Akure, though their exact location was not disclosed for security reasons.
Authorities Remain Silent
Attempts to get an official statement from the Ondo State Police Command proved unsuccessful, as the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, was unreachable at the time of reporting.
While their release has brought relief to the affected families, the incident has once again highlighted the growing security concerns in Ondo State. Residents continue to call on the government and security agencies to take decisive action against kidnappers and ensure the safety of citizens.
