- Eight Imoga indigenes abducted from a hotel in Akoko-Edo, Edo State
- Kidnappers posed as soldiers, drank at the hotel before striking
- ₦100m ransom demanded, later reduced to ₦70m with fresh conditions
- Police and Edo govt launched tracking operation, rescue ongoing
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted eight residents of Imoga community in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, demanding a ₦100 million ransom for their release after storming a hotel where the victims lodged overnight.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped on Friday night at Star Boy Hotel along the Imoga–Ibillo Road, after attending a social function in the neighbouring town of Ibillo.
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Confirming the incident, the Okpahi of Imoga Kingdom, Oba Patrick Obajoye, said the attackers arrived at the hotel wearing army uniforms, pretending to be customers.
According to the monarch, the gunmen ordered drinks and waited calmly before suddenly taking control of the premises.
“They came in military camouflage, bought drinks and acted normal. After a while, they seized the phones of the hotel owner and guests, tied them up and marched them into the bush,” Oba Obajoye said.
He disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded ₦100 million, but later reduced it to ₦70 million, insisting that one of the hotel owner’s vehicles should be sold to raise part of the ransom.
“Eight people are currently in captivity, including one woman. The way the kidnappers spoke during negotiations suggests this may be an inside job,” the traditional ruler added.
The king described the incident as heartbreaking, noting that raising such an amount would be extremely difficult for the community.
Meanwhile, security agencies swung into action after the abduction. Oba Obajoye confirmed that the Edo State Police Command, working with the state government, deployed modern tracking equipment, though the operation has yet to yield results.
One of the victims reportedly sustained a gunshot injury while attempting to escape and is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
When contacted, Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Eno Ikoedem, requested time to provide an official response as investigations continue.
Residents have called for intensified security in the area amid rising fears over recurring kidnappings.
