Gunmen who abducted 15 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members travelling from Bayelsa State to Abuja have reportedly demanded ₦20 million for each victim, as security agencies continue efforts to rescue those still in captivity.

The corps members were attacked along the Aloma-Egane Expressway in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State after completing their three-week orientation exercise.

Ransom Demand

A family member of one of the victims told Daily Trust that the abductors had contacted relatives and demanded ₦20 million for the release of each person.

“One of our daughters who was kidnapped on her way from Bayelsa State to Abuja after completing three weeks orientation camp. The kidnappers are requesting N20 million,” the family source said.

The incident had earlier been confirmed by the Kogi State Police Command, which said several passengers, including NYSC members, were abducted along the route.

11 Victims Rescued

The police said 11 abducted persons, including the drivers of the two vehicles involved in the incident, were rescued during a joint operation by security agencies.

The operation involved efforts to locate the victims and confront the attackers, while searches continued for those who remained in captivity.

The corps members were travelling to Abuja after their orientation programme in Bayelsa State when the vehicles came under attack.

Search Continues for Remaining Victims

Families of the remaining victims have appealed to the Federal Government, NYSC and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure their release.

The development has renewed concerns over the safety of corps members travelling on Nigerian highways after completing orientation programmes.

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