The individuals who abducted employees at Dangote Cement Company Plc in Okpella Community, Etsako Area of Edo State, have requested a ransom of N5 million from the family of a victim named Abah James Ogwu, who is currently being held by them.
Ogwu and his coworkers were kidnapped last week Monday when their staff bus was ambushed by some unidentified individuals in that community.
Reports from PUNCH Metro mentioned that the suspected kidnappers set up an ambush, and came out from the bushes, stopped the Coaster bus carrying the Dangote Cement workers at gunpoint, and then took the victims into the forest, with some unfortunately getting shot in the process.
As reported by Punch, Victor Ogwu’s son shared that the kidnappers lowered the ransom to N5 million from N15million after multiple pleas and discussions during phone calls with his mother and uncle.
They managed to gather N2 million with the support of friends, family, and the sale of the land in their village. On Tuesday, the kidnappers contacted their uncle, who informed them about having N2 million, but they haven’t heard back from them yet and they’re still waiting for their response. Victor Ogwu’s son mentioned that he been seeking help online as they are running short of funds for the ransom.
According to Punch The kidnapped victim’s son said “I do not know if the Edo State Police Command is making any effort to ensure their release because I and my mother are based in Ogun State. I want Dangote Company and the police force to intervene in this case, and help us out.”
He mentioned further that when they tried to reach out to the spokesperson for Dangote Group, Anthony Chiejina, they couldn’t get through as he didn’t answer calls or texts when the report was being compiled.
However, the spokesperson for the Edo Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed that an investigation is underway to help secure the victims’ release. He pointed to information provided by the command online.
Nwabuzor said that “Investigation is ongoing, that is the situation on ground. According to our report on the Internet, some of the victims, with gunshot injuries, were rescued”
