Kwara: Kidnappers demand N500m for construction workers

Bandits have demanded a N500 million ransom for the release of five road construction workers in Kwara State. The victims, who include two staff of the state Ministry of Works, were kidnapped two weeks ago on a construction site on the Sabaja/Owa-Onire Road in Isin LGA. Addressing reporters on Monday in Ilọrin, families of the […]

Bandits have demanded a N500 million ransom for the release of five road construction workers in Kwara State.

The victims, who include two staff of the state Ministry of Works, were kidnapped two weeks ago on a construction site on the Sabaja/Owa-Onire Road in Isin LGA.

Addressing reporters on Monday in Ilọrin, families of the kidnapped men, led by Mr. Dare Boyinbogun, accused the state government of neglect.

He said, “The bandits insist that negotiations must be with the government or not at all.”

Boyinbogun recalled that the kidnappers stormed the site at 11:40am, taking away five workers: Ademola Afolabi, Abdullahi Lade, Emmanuel Okuwadare Kayode, Fatai Akin, and a driver, Yusuf.

He further said, “Since that moment, our lives have been suspended between hope and despair.

“These men are not criminals. They are professionals and labourers contributing to the development of Kwara State. They went to work believing they would return home safely.

“Instead, their families have been thrown into anguish.

“Every passing hour deepens the trauma of families, especially wives, children and elderly parents who depend on these men for survival.

“Many households now face hunger, psychological distress and total uncertainty.

“We urge the government to establish direct communication with affected families. We cannot rely on rumours and social media for updates about our loved ones.”

The families also requested welfare support and counselling.

Idayat Lade, wife of one of the kidnapped men, said she lost a baby due to the emotional toll of the crisis.