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Family Challenges Police Narrative on Edo Twins’ Kidnapping and Subsequent Release
The family of twin siblings abducted after a deadly assault on their father has publicly disputed the Edo State Police Command’s claim that the children were safely rescued without harm. Instead, they disclosed that a significant ransom payment was necessary to secure the twins’ freedom.
Chronology of the Kidnapping Incident
On December 11, 2025, armed intruders invaded the residence of Andrew Ilabeshi in Kalabar Quarters, Afokpella, within the Etsako East Local Government Area. The assailants inflicted critical machete wounds on Ilabeshi before abducting his 16-year-old twins, Emmanuel and Emmanuella.
An eyewitness from the neighborhood recounted that the kidnappers intentionally disabled the family’s generator, plunging the home into darkness. When Ilabeshi stepped outside to investigate the power outage, he was viciously attacked and left in critical condition, later dying from his injuries.
Ransom Negotiations and Family’s Account
The kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦100 million for the twins’ release. Contrary to official police reports of a successful rescue, the family’s representative, Okhale Ilabeshi, clarified in a January 6, 2026 interview with Punch that the children were freed only after the ransom was fully paid.
Okhale stated, “The security agencies did not rescue the twins. We maintained direct contact with the kidnappers, and following the ransom payment, we were instructed to a location where the children were released to us.”
Psychological Impact on the Twins and Community Reactions
Upon their release, the twins were reportedly physically drained and emotionally traumatized, particularly after learning of their father’s death-a fact withheld from them during captivity. The family expressed profound grief over both the loss and the harrowing experience endured by the children.
In response, local residents have intensified efforts to strengthen vigilante groups to counter the escalating kidnappings. Nevertheless, the family insists these community measures are inadequate and urges state and federal governments to adopt more robust security frameworks to safeguard citizens.
Examining the Rise of Kidnapping in Edo State
Kidnapping for ransom has escalated sharply in Edo State and across Nigeria. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, abduction cases surged by 25% in 2025 compared to the previous year, reflecting a disturbing upward trend. This increase highlights the critical need for enhanced cooperation between law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders to restore public safety.
As authorities reassess their security strategies, families like the Ilabeshis continue to suffer the devastating consequences of these violent crimes, underscoring the human toll behind the alarming figures.
