Nine surveyors who were abducted in the Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria, have regained their freedom after their families reportedly paid a ransom of N20 million.
The victims were kidnapped last week while carrying out survey work at Ilu-Abo, an area in Akure North. The abductors initially demanded a ransom of N100 million but later reduced it after negotiations.
Market women in the area had earlier pleaded with the kidnappers to lower the ransom to N50 million, but the abductors rejected the appeal before finally agreeing to N20 million.
Their release was confirmed by Pastor Ajibade Owolanke, the brother of the Ejemikin of Akure, High Chief Oluwole Omotayo. Pastor Owolanke stated that the victims have since reunited with their families.
Following their release, the surveyors were taken to different hospitals for medical evaluation.
The incident has further heightened concerns over the rising insecurity in Ondo State. In response, market women and youths in Akure staged a protest on Tuesday, urging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and security agencies to take immediate action to curb kidnappings in the state.
Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on whether any arrests have been made in connection to the abduction.
