Abducted Secondary school student freed after N2m ransom payment in Edo

A secondary school student abducted in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State has regained her freedom after a ransom of ₦2 million was paid.

Tope Oriloye was kidnapped on February 8 in Makeke Community by gunmen who also abducted Samuel Ilesanmi at a community health centre. Ilesanmi had reportedly taken his son to the facility with his wife when he was seized.

The National Coordinator of the Movement for the Advancement of Akoko Edo People, Bode Ekundayo, confirmed Oriloye’s release in a message on Thursday, February 19.

“We all give thanks to God for the safe arrival of Tope Orilloye back home last night after payment of N2 million. She is safe, healthy, and unharmed. We are still awaiting the good news of the second victim, by God’s grace. He is from Ososo,” the statement read.

According to community sources, the kidnappers initially demanded ₦100 million for the release of the two victims before negotiations led to the payment of ₦2 million for Oriloye’s freedom. Ilesanmi, who hails from Ososo, remains in captivity.

The Edo State Police Command confirmed the development. The Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said: “I can confirm to you that Tope Oriloye has been released.” The incident is the latest in a series of kidnappings reported in Edo State in recent weeks.

On January 9, seven residents of Imoga were abducted at a hotel along the Imoga-Ibillo axis. The gunmen initially demanded ₦100 million, later reducing the ransom to ₦70 million and subsequently ₦40 million after negotiations. The victims were eventually released on January 19.

Security agencies have continued efforts to address rising cases of abduction in parts of the state.