Relatives of ex-Daily Trust editor regain freedom after abduction

Three relatives of Ahmed Tahir Ajobe, a former editor of Daily Trust, who were abducted last week, have regained their freedom.

The Guardian learnt that the abductors had initially demanded N50 million as ransom but later reduced it to N10 million. The victims include a male and two females, one of whom is Ajobe’s immediate younger sister, Halimtu-Sadiya Tahir.

Ajobe confirmed the development with The Guardian via text message. “Yes, they released them just this evening. They are currently receiving treatment in a hospital,” he said, expressing joy over their safe return. He, however, did not disclose if any ransom was paid.

The victims were reportedly kidnapped along the deteriorated Ankpa-Adoka-Makurdi road in Kogi State while returning from a community market in Awo, Ankpa Local Council. They were said to have gone to the market to purchase items for the seven-day prayers of their late mother, Malama Aishetu Tahir, who passed away the previous Sunday after a prolonged illness.

Efforts to reach Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer William Aya for comments were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.