Abuja, Nigeria – March 24, 2025
A victim of a recent kidnapping incident in Abuja has refuted claims by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command that security operatives rescued them, revealing that they secured their release by paying a ransom of N2.5 million.
The victim, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated that contrary to the police’s official report, no security agents were involved in their release. Instead, family members and associates negotiated with the kidnappers and eventually paid the demanded ransom.
“We were never rescued by the police or any security operatives. Our families had to raise N2.5 million before we were set free. It is disheartening to see the authorities taking credit for something they had no role in,” the victim said.
The FCT Police Command had earlier issued a statement claiming that a tactical operation led to the successful rescue of the abducted individuals. However, the victim’s revelation has raised concerns about transparency in security operations and the growing insecurity in the capital city.
Human rights activists and security analysts have urged the government to take decisive action against the rising cases of kidnapping and to ensure accurate reporting of security operations. Meanwhile, residents continue to call for improved security measures to curb the increasing threat of abductions in Abuja and its environs.
