Kidnappers have demanded N90 million to release abducted nine Ondo burial guests.
The victims were returning from a burial ceremony in Ewatto, Edo State on Saturday, September 3 when they were attacked in Ifon, a border town with Edo State.
The state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs Bamide Ademola-Olateju, disclosed this on Monday in Akure while briefing newsmen.
She said the kidnappers are demanding between N3m and N10m to release each of the nine victims.
Ademola-Olateju, however, said the state government will not be involved in the ransom negotiation, noting that the kidnappers use the money from the ransom to equip and arm themselves to do more harm.
She said the victims were returning from a burial ceremony in Ewatto, Edo State when they were attacked in Ifon, a border town with Edo State.
She said 11 people were initially abducted but two of the victims escaped from the abductors, saying nine people are still in the captive of the kidnappers since Saturday evening.
“The victims went for burial at Ewatto town. They were returning in a 32-seater Coaster bus hired from Rufus Guwa Polytechnic when they were attacked by suspected kidnappers,” she said.
“The kidnappers shot into the air and took 18 of the passengers. Those remaining called the Amotekun Corps who got to the scene within 15 minutes.
“Among those in the bush, seven were found and two others escaped.
“Amotekun is working with the police, the DSS and the Nigerian Army to secure the release of the remaining mine victims.
“They are demanding a ransom of between N3m and N10m.
“We commend the gallantry of Amotekun Corps in getting to the scene. Ondo State will not be a safe haven for criminals. They find this spot convenient because it borders Edo State. They will strike and run back into Edo State,” She stated.
