GUNMEN who abducted eight residents of Imoga in Edo North have lowered their ransom demand from ₦100 million to ₦40 million, as negotiations for the victims’ release continue.
The Okpahi of Imoga Kingdom, Oba Patrick Abudu, confirmed the development in a telephone interview yesterday, noting that the ransom had earlier been reduced to ₦70 million before the latest cut.
He said discussions are still ongoing, with the community hoping to further reduce the amount to ₦20 million.
According to the monarch, community leaders and other stakeholders are on standby to raise the funds once a final agreement is reached.
He added that the abduction has disrupted activities in the kingdom, including his own official engagements, as concerns grow over the safety of the victims who have been held for five days.
The eight Imoga indigenes were reportedly kidnapped on Friday night at a hotel along the Imoga–Ibillo Road after attending a function in Ibillo.
Oba Abudu said the assailants arrived wearing military-style uniforms, posing as guests before seizing the victims’ phones, restraining them, and leading them away.
Negotiations are continuing as the community seeks the safe return of the abducted residents.