Son Discloses Ransom Amount for Father’s Release Along Benin-Ore Expressway Abduction

Akeem Kareem, who was kidnapped along the Benin-Ore Expressway last Wednesday, has been released after spending three days in captivity. The harrowing ordeal ended with the payment of a N3 million ransom, according to the victim’s son, Sefiu Kareem.

Initially reported by Sunday Special, Sefiu had raised the alarm about his father’s abduction and an undisclosed number of other individuals in the Ofosu area of the expressway. The bandits had demanded a staggering N20 million for their release.

Sefiu recounted that his father and friends were returning from a party in Osogbo, Osun State, traveling to Warri, Delta State, when they were abducted. The family learned of the situation when the kidnappers contacted them using one of the phones taken from the victims.

Taking the matter to social media, Sefiu sought assistance from the military and police in rescuing his father, emphasizing his desperation not to lose him.

In a subsequent update, Sefiu confirmed his father’s release but revealed it came at the cost of a N3 million ransom. When asked about police involvement in the rescue, he stated he didn’t have full details.

Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the victims’ release but did not confirm if a ransom was paid.