Kidnappers Hold Two Individuals Hostage in Ekiti After Rejecting N10 Million Ransom

Two relatives of five women previously abducted in Erinmope-Ekiti, situated in Moba Local Government Area of Ekiti State, have been captured by kidnappers, raising the total family members being held to seven.

On January 24, 2026, armed men invaded the community, seizing five women that included a nursing mother and a pregnant woman among others. Initially, the abductors demanded a ransom of N100 million for the release of the victims.

Reports reveal that two men, identified as Soliu Mohammad and Soliu Ibrahim, were kidnapped after they attempted to deliver a reduced ransom of N10 million based on negotiations with the kidnappers.

The captives were said to have been directed to a site in Orun-Ago, Omu-Aran, before being ordered to move to Idofin in Oke-Ero Local Government Area of Kwara State, where they are reportedly being held.

In a telephone conversation, the family head, Alhaji Muhammad Saliu Okanlawon, popularly known as Elebenla, mentioned that the extended family contributed to gather the N10 million following a plea for a reduction from the original N100 million ransom.

"We delivered N10 million to the kidnappers last Friday, February 6, 2026, at a site in Orun-Ago, Omu-Aran, but subsequently, we were directed to Idofin in Oke-Ero Local Government Area of Kwara State," he stated.

He expressed profound distress over the incident, noting, "Our family has endured great trauma. We labored to gather the N10 million, hoping that the abductors would be merciful and release the five previously abducted family members."

Okanlawon further lamented that the situation worsened when they learned that the two individuals carrying the ransom had also been taken hostage. The kidnappers reportedly claimed the offered amount was insufficient despite their entreaties.

He urged the government to intervene, highlighting that one of the victims is nine months pregnant and emphasizing the immense stress she is currently facing. "This is a heartbreaking ordeal for our family,” he added.

Okanlawon called for immediate action from security forces and governmental authorities to ensure the safe release of all seven individuals held captive. As of the time of reporting, there had been no official statement from security personnel concerning the incident.