The couple abducted last Friday at Ilu-Abo community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State have regained their freedom following the payment of a N5 million ransom.

The victims, identified as Mr. Jamiu Olawale and his wife, were kidnapped on Friday night shortly after returning home from their shop when gunmen reportedly stormed their residence and whisked them away.

They spent four days in captivity before being released by their abductors on Tuesday night.

A relative of the family, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed their release and disclosed that ransom was paid to secure their freedom.

“Jamiu and his wife were freed by their captors on Tuesday night and have since reunited with their family,” the source said.

It was gathered that the kidnappers initially demanded N40 million but later reduced the amount to N12 million during negotiations before finally agreeing to accept N5 million.

The abduction had heightened fears among residents of Ilu-Abo and neighbouring communities in Akure North Local Government Area, where cases of kidnapping and armed attacks have been reported in recent times.

Police authorities had earlier confirmed the incident and announced the deployment of tactical operatives to comb surrounding forests in an effort to rescue the victims. (Arise News)

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