RismadarVoice Reporters
January 21, 2026
Seven indigenes of Imoga Community in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, who were abducted by gunmen earlier this month, have regained their freedom following the payment of an undisclosed ransom.
The Coordinator of the Movement for the Advancement of Akoko Edo People, Mr. Bode Ekundayo, confirmed the development on Tuesday, stating that the victims had been reunited with their families.
“Victims have now been released after the payment of a huge ransom,” Ekundayo said.
However, he declined to disclose the exact amount paid, noting during a telephone interview that he was not in a position to reveal such details.
Ekundayo also disclosed that the eighth victim, who reportedly escaped during the abduction, is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
“I can tell you that they have been reunited with their families after the community secured their release. It is a sad experience, and we hope they will overcome the effects,” he added.
He further stated that the police had been informed of the release and that the community was relieved by the safe return of its sons and daughter.
Confirming the development, the traditional ruler of Imoga, Oba Patrick Abudu, said he met with the released victims on Tuesday and described the atmosphere in the community as jubilant.
According to the monarch, residents trooped out in large numbers to receive the victims at the boundary between Imoga and Okene when news of their release filtered into the town.
“It is like we are having a special festival in the community. Everyone came out to rejoice, and I have also met with them. A large entourage went to receive them — I have never seen such in the community,” Oba Abudu said.
“Despite the sad ordeal, the people were united to ensure our indigenes were released. With unity, everything is achievable,” he added.
As of the time of filing this report, the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, did not respond to phone calls, while a WhatsApp message sent to her was yet to be replied.
The victims were abducted on January 9 while lodging at Stay Boy Hotel along the Imoga–Ibillo Road.
The owner of the hotel, who is also an indigene of Imoga, was kidnapped alongside the guests.
On January 11, the kidnappers reportedly demanded ₦100 million for the release of the abductees. Following negotiations, the ransom was reduced to ₦70 million, and later to ₦40 million.
On January 16, the abductors allegedly threatened to kill the victims if the ransom was not paid, insisting that they “meant business.”
