Kidnapped Ondo couple regain freedom after N5m ransom payment

A couple, Jamiu Olawale and his wife, who were abducted at their residence in Olaribigba Estate in Ilu Ibo, Akure North Local Government Area of the state, have regained freedom after ransom payment. 

LIB reported that the couple was returning home from their shop in an ash-coloured Toyota Camry when the assailants struck on 

Their neighbour, Patrick Ilumaro, who was seated in front of his residence at the time of the incident, was also shot by the gunmen during violent attack.

They were freed on Tuesday night, February 25, 2026 after their families allegedly raised and pay a ransom of N5 million to their abductors. 

A relative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed their release to the Nation on Wednesday. 

“They (Jamiu and his wife were) have been freed by their captors. They were released on Tuesday night, and they have since reunited with their family,” the family source said. 

“It was very tough getting them out of captivity. Don’t forget the kidnappers had earlier demanded N40 million, but later reduced the amount to N12 million during negotiations before eventually agreeing to N5 million.”