Gunmen Abduct Five from Edo Health Centre, Demand ₦100 Million Ransom

Gunmen Abduct Five from Edo Health Centre, Demand ₦100 Million Ransom

A kidnapping incident in Akoko‑Edo Local Government Area, Edo State, has left residents alarmed after five people were abducted from the Makeke Health Centre. The kidnappers have reportedly contacted families, demanding a ₦100 million ransom for the release of two of the victims.

The abductions occurred on February 8, 2026, targeting individuals seeking and providing medical services. The confirmed victims include Mrs. Gladys Okomayin, a nurse at the health centre; Miss Tope Oriloye, a female secondary school student; and Mr. Samuel Ilesanmi, who had brought his son for treatment. The names of the two other victims have not yet been released.

Eyewitnesses reported that the nurse was later abandoned in the bush as she could not keep pace with the kidnappers during their retreat. Following the incident, local hunters and vigilantes mobilised to comb the forests for the abducted individuals, but efforts to locate them were unsuccessful.

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The kidnappers have demanded ₦100 million for the release of Miss Oriloye and Mr. Ilesanmi, heightening fears over a rising spate of kidnappings in Edo State and surrounding regions.

Mr. Omowumi Bode Ekundayo, National Coordinator of the Movement for the Advancement of Akoko Edo People, warned that the security situation is deteriorating, stressing that the area has become a gateway for criminal activities from neighboring states. He called on security agencies and state authorities to take urgent action to prevent further tragedies.

The Edo State Police Command, through Public Relations Officer Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the kidnappings and stated that investigations and rescue operations are ongoing. Authorities are working to ensure the safe return of the victims and apprehend those responsible.

This incident adds to Edo State’s growing security challenges, as communities continue to grapple with abductions and ransom demands across rural and semi-urban areas. Residents and local leaders have urged stronger police presence and rapid intervention strategies to tackle the kidnapping menace.

Gunmen Abduct Five from Edo Health Centre, Demand ₦100 Million Ransom