Gunmen Demand ₦20 Million Ransom for Each Abducted NYSC Member in Kogi
Families of corps members abducted while travelling from Bayelsa State to Abuja are appealing for urgent intervention after kidnappers reportedly demanded ₦20 million for each victim still in captivity.
Gunmen who abducted members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Kogi State have reportedly demanded ₦20 million ransom for each victim still being held. The corps members were among a group travelling from Bayelsa State to Abuja after completing their three-week orientation programme when their vehicles were attacked along the Aloma-Egane Expressway in Ofu Local Government Area.
Reports indicate that about 15 corps members were among the passengers affected by the attack. A family member of one of the victims said the kidnappers had contacted relatives and communicated the ₦20 million ransom demand, increasing anxiety among families waiting for the safe return of their loved ones.
The Kogi State Police Command had earlier confirmed the abduction of passengers, including NYSC members, along the route. Security agencies later announced that 11 abducted persons, including the drivers of the two vehicles involved, were rescued during a joint security operation. Efforts are continuing to locate and rescue those who remain in captivity.
Families of the remaining victims have appealed to the Federal Government, NYSC management and security agencies to intensify rescue operations. The incident has also renewed concerns about the security of major highways and the safety of young Nigerians travelling between states after completing official assignments and programmes.
Authorities have not publicly confirmed the identities of the attackers or whether negotiations regarding the reported ransom demands are taking place. The situation remains an active security operation, with families hoping that the remaining victims will be rescued safely.
