In a significant development, the suspected kidnappers holding eight residents of Imoga community in Edo State captive have reduced their ransom demand. The abductors, who initially demanded a staggering N100 million, have now lowered their request to N40 million.
Monarch Leads Negotiations for Lower Ransom
The Okpahi of Imoga Kingdom, Oba Patrick Abudu, confirmed the new demand in a telephone interview on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. The traditional ruler revealed that community stakeholders are actively engaged in negotiations, aiming to secure the victims' release at an even lower sum.
"We have continued to negotiate with the kidnappers, and they have agreed to reduce the ransom to N40 million. But we hope they can bring it down to N20 million," Oba Abudu stated. He expressed deep concern over the safety of the abducted individuals, noting that five days have passed since the traumatic incident occurred on Friday night.
Community on Standby for Payment
The monarch detailed the community's preparedness to gather the required funds once a final agreement is reached with the captors. He indicated that the kidnapping has severely disrupted normal life, preventing him from traveling outside the kingdom to attend to pressing matters.
"Our people are on standby to raise the money for the ransom. Payment will be made as soon as the cash is available," Oba Abudu explained, highlighting the collective effort to secure the release of the eight indigenes.
Details of the Abduction
The victims were kidnapped at the Star Boy Hotel located on the Imoga-Ibillo Road in Edo North. Reports indicate they had attended a function in Ibillo and decided to lodge at the hotel for the night. The hotel is notably owned by a fellow indigene of Imoga.
In a deceptive tactic, the kidnappers arrived at the hotel dressed in army uniforms and pretended to be patrons waiting for someone, even ordering drinks. They subsequently accosted the hotel owner and seized his two mobile phones before carrying out the abduction.
Ongoing Security Concerns
This incident underscores the persistent security challenges in parts of Edo State, particularly in the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area. The community's leadership remains focused on the safe return of their people through negotiation, a common but distressing recourse in such crises. The situation continues to develop as talks between the community representatives and the kidnappers proceed.
