Six Hostages Freed After N25 Million Ransom Payment in Ekiti Kidnapping Incident

Tragic Outcome as One Victim Dies in Captivity

Gunmen who kidnapped seven individuals from Erinmope-Ekiti in Moba Local Government Area, Ekiti State, have released six of the abductees following a ransom payment of N25 million. Unfortunately, one of the victims, Hawau Suleiman, passed away while in captivity, and her remains have yet to be located.

Details of the Abduction and Initial Demands

The abduction occurred on January 24, 2026, when armed assailants invaded the community and seized five women. Initially, the kidnappers demanded a hefty ransom of N100 million for their release. Among those taken were a nursing mother and a woman who was nine months pregnant at the time.

Harsh Conditions and Extended Captivity

During their ordeal, the hostages were forced to trek barefoot through dense forests spanning Ekiti, Kwara, and Kogi States, enduring weeks of hardship without adequate food or water. Hawau Suleiman reportedly collapsed from exhaustion during this grueling journey and later died.

Failed Negotiations and Additional Kidnappings

In an attempt to secure the release of the five women, two male relatives delivered N10 million to the kidnappers. However, the kidnappers rejected this amount and abducted the two men as well, increasing the total number of hostages to seven.

Release Following Ransom Payment

Sources confirm that the six surviving hostages were freed earlier this week after the family paid a ransom totaling N25 million. The victims were released at different locations across Kogi and Kwara States before making their way back to Erinmope.

Survivors’ Account of the Ordeal

Muhammad Soliu, one of the freed hostages, recounted the harrowing experience, describing the relentless trek through the forest and the emotional toll of losing a fellow captive. “We walked several kilometers barefoot, without food or water, moving from a forest in Kwara to the Kogi border. We had no hope of survival,” he said.

He added, “When the woman collapsed, we begged the kidnappers to help or at least allow us to carry her, but they threatened to kill us if we stopped. They forced us to keep moving without looking back. It was the most terrifying experience imaginable. We are appealing to the authorities to help recover her body so she can be properly buried.”

Captivity Duration and Medical Attention for Pregnant Victim

Soliu revealed that he and his brother were tied together during their captivity and were not allowed to communicate with the five women initially abducted. The brothers spent 11 days in captivity, while the women endured nearly a month. The expectant mother was reportedly taken to a hospital for medical care after her release.

Context and Broader Implications

This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in parts of Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom have surged in recent years. According to the Nigerian Security Tracker, kidnappings increased by over 30% in 2025 compared to the previous year, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced protective measures in vulnerable communities.

Communities like Erinmope-Ekiti continue to face threats from armed groups exploiting forested border areas, making coordinated efforts between state and federal security agencies critical to curbing such violent crimes.