Kidnappers operating in Woru and neighbouring communities in Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State have reportedly demanded an additional N5 million after the family of a traditional chief paid an initial ransom for the release of his son.
The victim, identified as the son of the Magaji of Woru community in Apado Ward, was reportedly abducted in August and has remained in captivity despite the family meeting the kidnappers’ first demands.
Residents said the abductors initially demanded N5 million, one Bajaj motorcycle, two smartphones and 20 bottles of alcohol in exchange for the victim’s release.
The family reportedly provided the money and items but the kidnappers allegedly failed to release the victim.
About three days later, the abductors reportedly contacted the traditional chief again and demanded another N5 million, claiming that the earlier payment and items were not enough.
Residents said the situation had left the victim’s family under serious financial and emotional pressure.
They also disclosed that at least six other people had allegedly been kidnapped from Woru and surrounding communities between August and September, with the victims still in captivity.
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According to the residents, kidnappers have continued to operate around the area, particularly targeting farmers and motorists travelling along roads connecting the rural communities to Ilorin.
The worsening insecurity has reportedly affected farming activities, as many residents are now afraid to travel to their farms or move between neighbouring communities.
The residents appealed to the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect the affected communities and rescue those still being held by the kidnappers.
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