How Delta Man Allegedly Paid ₦900,000 to Kidnap Aunt Who Raised Him

A 31-year-old man, Chukwemeka Destiny, has been arrested in Delta State over an alleged plan to abduct his aunt, who raised him from childhood.

The suspect was presented on Saturday by the spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, Bright Edafe, who said Destiny arranged and paid a total of ₦900,000 to individuals he believed were kidnappers to carry out the operation.

According to police accounts, Destiny lived with the woman from the age of five until about 15. During that period, she is said to have catered for his upbringing and education. He later left the home and severed regular contact with the family.

Police said the case was uncovered after the individuals he contacted turned out not to be criminals. Instead, they reportedly pretended to accept the job, engaged him, and subsequently handed him over to the authorities.

Edafe said the payment was made in two instalments of ₦200,000 and ₦700,000.

“What we have here is a case where the suspect allegedly sought to kidnap a relative who raised him,” he said. “The people he contacted were not kidnappers. They worked with us and ensured he was arrested.”

During interrogation, Destiny admitted involvement but said he could not clearly explain his motive.

“I am guilty. I don’t know what came over me. I can’t explain,” he said.

He also told investigators he is married with two children and runs a haulage and building materials business, adding that the money used was from his earnings.

“I first paid ₦200,000, then another ₦700,000,” he said.

The aunt, who identified him as her sister’s son, said she was taken aback when she learned of the alleged plan.

“I was shocked,” she said, describing the moment as distressing.

She said Destiny had not maintained close ties with the family since leaving home as a teenager, though he was occasionally seen around the area without engaging them directly.

Asked about how she would want the case handled, she said she supported legal action.

“Let the law take its course,” she said.

The police spokesperson said the case reflects a growing concern around violence involving people with prior personal relationships.

The suspect remains in custody with the Raiders Squad of the Delta State Police Command as investigations continue.