A worsening wave of kidnappings in Edo State has claimed at least 10 passengers along the Benin–Sobe–Akure Road, with kidnappers demanding ₦20 million for their release.

The alert was raised by civic tech accountability group MonITNG on X (formerly Twitter), which called on Governor Monday Okpebholo and security agencies to intervene immediately.

According to MonITNG, the incident occurred on Saturday, October 25, 2025, near the NIFOR area by the Aso-Rock Police Checkpoint. Among the abducted were Mr. John Odion from Ogute-Emai, Owan East LGA, and Miss Ayeni Joy. The group reported that the driver and two breastfeeding mothers were released, while negotiations are ongoing, with ransom reportedly reduced to ₦10 million for some victims.

MonITNG provided details on the victims’ circumstances, noting that Mr. Odion had initially taken a bike to Sabo after failing to secure transport from Afuze and was then caught up in the kidnapping. Miss Ayeni Joy was reportedly abducted in the same area while returning from Afuze.

“These incidents highlight the growing insecurity on Edo highways, where ordinary citizens fear abduction,” the group said, urging the Edo State government, Nigerian Police, Nigerian Army, and local vigilante groups to take immediate action. They called for a visible security presence along the corridor to prevent further attacks.

This kidnapping comes days after Wahab Aisha, abducted two weeks ago in Auchi, was freed. An activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, confirmed her release, expressing frustration over the state’s lack of collaboration in rescue efforts. Aisha was reportedly forced to trek long distances with her abductors before being released in Okpella, Etsako West LGA.

MonITNG concluded with an urgent appeal: “Edo State must not become a haven for kidnappers. The government and security agencies must rise to their duty, protect lives, rescue victims, and restore peace.”

Hashtags and mentions accompanying the alert included #EdoInsecurity, #SecureEdo, #EndKidnapping, @PoliceNG, @EdoPoliceNG, and @HQNigerianArmy.

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