By John Ikani
The kidnappers of 31 train passengers at the Tom Ikimi/Ekehen train station in Igueben, Edo State, have made a staggering ransom demand of N20 million per victim.
In total, the kidnappers are demanding a sum of N620 million for the safe return of all 31 individuals.
Disclosing this to newsmen, the Executive-Director of Esan Youth for Good Governance and Social Justice, Benson Odia said the kidnappers have contacted the families of the victims and made their demands.
According to him, the kidnappers are not open to negotiation and the ransom demand of N20 million per person is non-negotiable.
He said: “I can confirm that the kidnappers have demanded N20 million from each of the 31 victims still being held, totalling N620 million. This is absurd and I do not know where the poor people will raise that.”
The incident has caused significant distress to the families of the kidnapped individuals, who are now facing the difficult decision of meeting the kidnappers’ demands or risk the safety of their loved ones.
The state Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, had previously stated that six of the train passengers were rescued during the attack and that 25 were still being held by the kidnappers.
However, the kidnappers themselves have disputed the claim, insisting that all 31 of the victims remain in their custody.
This development adds to the confusion and uncertainty surrounding the situation, and police are yet to confirm the ransom demands made by the kidnappers.
The police spokesperson, Chidi Nwabuzor, has requested more time to confirm the validity of the ransom claim, while the Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Dankwara, is yet to make a statement on the matter.
