Fresh revelations have surfaced indicating that ransom was paid before the release of abducted Benue Links passengers, contradicting earlier narratives that emphasized a rescue operation.
The victims were among passengers kidnapped after armed men attacked a commercial bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road, an incident that sparked widespread concern across Benue State.
Although authorities confirmed that all 13 victims regained their freedom in the early hours of Sunday, details surrounding how their release was secured have remained unclear.
However, two individuals who reportedly delivered the ransom to the kidnappers have now shared a firsthand account in an interview with Meddy Olotu Imanoel.
According to them, approximately ₦3.6 million was raised by families and concerned individuals and taken deep into the bush where the victims were being held captive.
They disclosed that the kidnappers issued strict conditions, including demands for additional items such as soft drinks valued at ₦33,000, before agreeing to release the victims.
Recounting their experience, the men said they parked their motorcycle at a designated location and trekked into the bush at night to meet the heavily armed kidnappers, who carefully inspected the money before accepting it.
They further revealed that the kidnappers appeared to be under pressure from security operatives at the time, a factor that may have contributed to the swift release after the payment was confirmed.
The victims were eventually freed between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m., following hours of tense negotiations.
This account introduces a new dimension to the incident, raising fresh questions about the role of ransom payments in kidnapping cases, even as official statements often highlight rescue efforts.
For many affected families, it underscores a harsh reality taking any possible step to ensure the safe return of their loved ones.
[Benuevibes]
