The families of six Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials, including two serving members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), have been left in distress after their kidnappers demanded a N50 million ransom.
The abductions occurred during the Kogi State House of Assembly election on March 19, 2023, when the officials were returning from Kupa North and South.
Babalola Peter, who served as Assistant Presiding Officer II (APO II) in the House of Assembly election, spoke on behalf of the families and revealed that his sister, Oyaniran Atinuke Ruth, was among those still held captive. Other victims still in captivity include NYSC members, Muhammed Maimunat and Abdulrahman Raji, as well as INEC Ad-Hoc staff Opara Tina, Blessing, and Florence Shayo Ajayi.
Peter disputed claims by the Nigeria Police Force that all the kidnapped victims had been rescued, insisting that the abductors were still holding those named.
He said the kidnappers had been calling the families with different numbers and demanding a N50 million ransom. The families fear for the safety of their loved ones and implored the government and security forces to work towards their safe release.
Oluwafemi Olakanmi, the husband of Florence Shayo Ajayi, said he had not slept since his wife was kidnapped and called on God to intervene and free her.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of election officials and the need for better security measures during elections.