In a distressing turn of events, the gunmen responsible for the kidnapping of five pupils and four staff members from the Apostolic Faith Group of Schools in Emure Ekiti, Ekiti State, have intensified their demand for a ransom.
The assailants, who ambushed a bus transporting schoolchildren and employees last Friday, have insisted on a staggering N15m for the release of the abductees. Initially demanding N10m for each of the nine individuals taken captive, the kidnappers later revised their ransom requirement to a consolidated N15m on Friday.
Alarming reports suggest that the perpetrators warned the families to expedite the payment, emphasizing the deteriorating health of the children in their custody. The assailants issued a chilling threat, declaring their intention to harm the hostages if the ransom was not promptly delivered.
Pastor Gabriel Adesanya, the proprietor of the targeted school, provided an update on the situation, stating, “The development is that they (kidnappers) are demanding ransom; N15m. Between yesterday (Thursday) and now (Friday), they are still insisting on N15m ransom.
”Desperation has set in among the families of the abducted, as they scramble to raise the exorbitant ransom. A family source, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed the challenges they face, stating, “The families of the abductees are looking for money.
On Thursday, they offered N4m to the abductees, which they rejected.” The kidnappers’ unyielding demand for N15m has heightened concerns, prompting a plea for assistance from the federal and state governments, as well as well-meaning Nigerians. Expressing the dire situation, the source appealed, “The families had tasked themselves, and there was a contribution in Eporo, but the money gathered is still a far-cry. What is needed right now is support.
I will, on behalf of the families and the hostages, especially the children, appeal to the federal and state governments and all well-meaning Nigerians to come to our aid so that they can be released.” The community is now anxiously awaiting a swift and positive response to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
Credit: The Punch News