Abductors of the Edo State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Tony Aziegbemi, have reportedly contacted the family demanding a N500 million ransom nine days after he was kidnapped.
Aziegbemi was kidnapped by six gunmen on March 15, 2024, at the entrance of his house around 11 pm after a meeting with Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, at Government House.
The abductors, however, left his driver.
Reports, which quoted an anonymous family source, said that Azeigbemi’s abductors contacted the family in the early hours of last Friday and demanded a N500 million ransom during the conversation.
However, the Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor, said:
“I am not aware of any ransom demand. I can only confirm what I am aware of.”
Earlier on, a family member, who identified himself as Sam Ogbeiye, had appealed to the kidnappers to spare Aziegbemi’s life and contact the family.
Ogbeiye also called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure his freedom.
The Edo State Police Commissioner, Funsho Adegboye, told journalists during an event at the State command that the police tactical team, in collaboration with vigilante groups and hunters, is combing the bush and creeks to rescue the victim unhurt.
