In a chilling twist, the abductors of Catholic Priest Rev. Fr. Philip Ekeli and seminarian Peter Andrew have made a shocking ransom demand—N200 million, a firearm, and the release of two gang members—before setting their captives free.
The duo was kidnapped on Monday night from St. Peter Catholic Church in Ivukwa, Etsako East LGA, Edo State. However, during a swift response to the attack, local vigilantes and security forces took down one of the kidnappers while another fled with gunshot wounds, possibly succumbing to his injuries in the forest.
While the Catholic Church has yet to make an official statement, a local resident confirmed the kidnappers’ demands, stating, “They have opened communication. They want N200 million, a gun, and two of their gang members back.”
Meanwhile, Edo State Police spokesperson Moses Yamu dismissed circulating rumors, saying, “I am not aware of this development. There are always various speculations in cases like this.”
As the tense situation unfolds, the community remains on edge, hoping for a swift resolution and the safe return of the abducted clergymen.
