NEWS UPDATE: ABDUCTED COUPLE REGAINS FREEDOM AFTER ₦10.6 MILLION RANSOM AS FAMILY RAISES SECURITY CONCERNS IN ONDO

ABDUCTED COUPLE REGAINS FREEDOM AFTER ₦10.6 MILLION RANSOM AS FAMILY RAISES SECURITY CONCERNS IN ONDO


A couple abducted earlier this month in Ondo State have regained their freedom after days in captivity, following the payment of ransom, family sources have confirmed.

Mr. Shakirudeen Ganiyu Adewale and his wife, Mrs. Ife Adewale, were kidnapped on February 20, 2025, at Ilu Abo in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State. The news of their release was confirmed today, Wednesday, February 25, 2025, according to details made available to Opima RealNews.

A family member, Mr. Hammed Fatai, who identified himself as a cousin to one of the victims, told Opima RealNews that he personally delivered the ransom demanded by the abductors to secure the couple’s freedom. According to him, a total of ₦5.3 million was paid for each victim, bringing the overall ransom to ₦10.6 million.

Mr. Fatai disclosed that negotiations were conducted through an individual he described as the leader of the kidnapping group, who maintained communication throughout the period of captivity. He described the suspect as “a young and educated man,” adding that the discussions were systematic and coordinated.

While specific details about the location where the victims were held were not disclosed for security reasons, family members expressed relief that the couple has safely reunited with their loved ones.

Raising broader concerns, Mr. Fatai urged government authorities to intensify security operations across forested areas, which he alleged have increasingly become safe havens for criminal elements. He called for more proactive, intelligence-driven strategies to dismantle suspected camps and prevent future incidents.

He further suggested enhanced aerial surveillance and coordinated operations involving security agencies, including the Nigerian Air Force, to address the growing threat.

The incident adds to ongoing concerns about kidnapping activities in parts of the state and underscores calls from residents for strengthened security architecture to safeguard lives and property.

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