Kidnappers of Lagos pupils, teachers demand N30m ransom

(1) A teacher (left) consoling one of the parents of the abducted pupils; (2) A pupil leaving the school after the attack; (3) A deserted hall in the school.

Kidnappers of four pupils, a teacher and vice principal of Lagos Junior Model College, Igbonla, Epe, Lagos State, have demanded N30m as ransom for the release of the victims.

According to sources close to the families of the abducted, the kidnappers placed N5m ransom on each victim’s head.

“What they are now asking for is N5m for each victim. We have been warned by the school authorities not to give further details. The abductors called on Saturday and assured us that the victims were fine. While we were discussing with them, we heard a gunshot. They told us that they meant business. We are trying to raise any amount that we can,” the source said.

A local vigilance group member in the area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told us that the abductors were suspected to be within the Igbonla area, as all possible means of escape on the waterways had been blocked by security agencies.

“The kidnappers are believed to be within a creek in Ikorodu. They cannot go out of Lagos as all channels have been blocked by security personnel. But even Ikorodu is a large area with several hideouts. It is hoped that they will be tracked down soon,” he said.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmos, said rescue operation was ongoing.