Nine children kidnapped during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area, Benue State, have regained their freedom.
The children were reportedly freed after spending about one week in captivity.
It was gathered that the abductors initially demanded a ransom of N100 million but later reduced it to N30 million during negotiations.
As of the time of filing this report, it remains unclear whether any ransom was paid to secure their release.
The children’s freedom came less than 24 hours after the state governor, Hyacinth Alia, directed security agencies to ensure their immediate rescue.
The victims returned to their community at about 8 p.m. on Saturday, where they were received by jubilant residents who celebrated their safe return.
