Kidnapped NYSC Member Feared Dead After N10m Ransom

The family of an abducted member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), identified as Abba, say they fear he has been killed by his captors despite paying a ransom of N10 million for his release.

Relatives said communication with the kidnappers abruptly stopped after the payment was made, raising fears that the corps member may have been murdered.

Family sources told security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama that the abductors initially demanded N10 million to secure Abba’s freedom but later made additional demands even after the money was delivered.

According to the sources, the kidnappers subsequently asked the family to provide motorcycles in addition to the ransom already paid.

“Since receiving the N10 million ransom payment, Abba’s abductors have completely cut off all communication with the family,” the sources said.

The family said it had refused to meet the new demands after the sudden silence from the kidnappers, saying the lack of communication had left them uncertain about Abba’s fate.

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In anticipation of the worst, the relatives have begun arrangements to hold funeral prayers in absentia in accordance with Islamic tradition.

They said the Janaza prayer (Gha’ib) for the corps member was scheduled for Friday, 6 March. 

The family also thanked individuals and groups who supported them during the ordeal.

“Abba’s family wishes to express profound gratitude to everyone who offered support, prayers, donations and kind words during this difficult period. May the Almighty reward your generosity abundantly,” they said.

Despite the preparations, relatives said they were still hoping the corps member might be alive.

“If he has passed on, may Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus,” a family member said.

Before communication with the kidnappers ceased, a video circulating online showed the corps member appealing for help while in captivity.

In the footage, Abba, speaking in Hausa, pleaded for intervention, saying his life was in danger as he begged for mercy from his captors.

“Please help me for God’s sake. Please help my life. I may soon die in this situation,” he said.

His family said they continue to hope for clarity about his fate even as preparations for the funeral prayer proceed.