The nine surveyors kidnapped last week in Ondo State have reportedly regained their freedom, but not before their families were allegedly forced to pay a hefty ₦20 million ransom—despite the state government’s silence on the matter.
The victims were abducted at a site in Ilu Abo Community, Akure North Local Government Area, with their captors initially demanding a staggering ₦100 million for their release. As fears grew, hundreds of enraged women took to the streets of Akure, the state capital, demanding Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s intervention in the worsening security crisis.
Following intense pressure, the hostages were freed on Tuesday night, according to Pastor Ajibade Owolanke, a brother to the *Ejemikin of Akure*, High Chief Oluwole Omotayo. However, details surrounding their release remain shrouded in mystery, with no official statement from the police or the government.
Efforts to reach the state Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami, were unsuccessful, further fueling suspicions that authorities are deliberately keeping quiet about the ransom payment.
With criminals seemingly operating unchecked and citizens left to negotiate with kidnappers themselves, many are asking: Has Ondo State surrendered to lawlessness?
