After Everything We Endured,The Head Of The K!dnappers Gave Each Of Us ₦2K & Told Us To Leave–Philip

After Everything We Endured,The Head Of The Kidnappers Gave Each Of Us ₦2K & Told Us To Leave–Philip

According to a report by Punch on Monday, October 12, 2026, Ibi Philip, a prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, has recounted how kidnappers gave him and 11 other victims ₦2,000 each after releasing them from captivity in a forest in Kogi State.

Philip said the victims were abducted on September 30, 2026, while travelling in a Benue Links bus to the NYSC orientation camp in Akure, Ondo State. The vehicle was attacked at Ibilo, Edo State, while the 12 passengers who did not escape were taken into the forest.

According to him, the kidnappers initially demanded ₦50 million in ransom before reducing the amount to ₦30 million, ₦20 million, and eventually ₦10 million. During their captivity, the victims suffered hunger, heavy rainfall, and physical abuse.

Philip explained that his father and other family members struggled to raise money for his release. His father eventually raised ₦1.7 million before the kidnappers asked him to make it ₦2 million.

He said the families were directed to Lokoja before being redirected to Okene, where the ransom was collected. After confirming receipt of the money, the kidnappers instructed those guarding the victims to release them.

Philip said the gang leader gave each victim ₦2,000 and told them to leave quickly.