Parents of Abducted Corps Members Plead for Help Amid Ransom Demands

The heart-wrenching plight of the families of 20 abducted prospective National Youth Service Corps members has taken a desperate turn as they beseech the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, for assistance in securing their children's release. The parents, who gathered at Ladoja's residence, expressed their sadness and helplessness over the N1 billion ransom that the kidnappers have threatened to enforce within a 24-hour deadline, escalating fears for the safety of the victims.

The abduction occurred last Thursday when gunmen attacked the corps members while they were traveling from Ibadan to various orientation camps along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Umunoha, Imo State. The incident has drawn the attention of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, who has dispatched the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Shehu Nadada, to coordinate the rescue efforts for the abducted individuals.

In a troubling twist, some parents have accused the transport company responsible for conveying their children of failing to provide critical information when approached for assistance. The parents alleged that Eduak King Transport Company, located in Samonda, Ibadan, was uncooperative when they sought help in locating other affected families, further compounding their distress at a time when unity and communication are crucial.

“We cannot raise N1 billion; we are pleading for help to save our children,” one distraught parent lamented during the visit to the Olubadan. “We are counting on your influence to ensure their safe return,” they implored.

This incident is a stark reminder of the growing insecurity challenges in Nigeria, particularly affecting youth and students. As the families await news of their loved ones, the community and authorities are called upon to act swiftly and decisively to bring the victims home safely.