Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
After 40 harrowing days in captivity, Mohammed Abubakar Ndakpada, a teacher and farmer with the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board, has finally regained his freedom. His release came after his family paid an additional N5.5 million ransom, following an earlier payment of N12 million to the kidnappers. The total ransom now stands at N17.5 million.
Ndakpada, a resident of the Lata-Nna community in Patigi Local Government Area, was abducted on Thursday, July 30, 2026. He was returning from his farm between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. when suspected bandits seized him. Shortly after the abduction, the kidnappers contacted his family through his phone, demanding a staggering N100 million ransom. After prolonged negotiations, the demand was reduced to N50 million, and eventually to the amounts that were paid.
The family's ordeal was marked by desperation and fear. They raised and paid the initial N12 million, supplied food, drinks, and other requested items, but the abductors refused to release Ndakpada. Instead, they demanded an additional N5 million. As the weeks dragged on, the kidnappers reportedly threatened to kill him if their demand was not met by a specific deadline.
A family member, who had earlier appealed for government intervention, expressed deep worry and financial distress. "My uncle that bandits kidnapped since last month is still with them after the family paid the ransom of N12 million with some items. Now they are requesting an additional N5 million. Please help us plead with the government for us," the source had said.
The situation was compounded by the fact that the Kwara State Government and security agencies had not publicly confirmed any of the ransom payments or the additional demand. This left the family to negotiate and pay on their own, highlighting the systemic failure to protect citizens.
Ndakpada's eventual release brings relief to his family and the Lata Nna community, but it has also renewed concerns over the worsening security situation in Patigi and neighbouring communities. Residents are now calling for sustained security operations and an increased security presence in the area. The incident underscores the urgent need for stronger measures to tackle kidnapping networks, as innocent citizens should not be left at the mercy of criminal elements.
As the community breathes a sigh of relief, the broader question remains: how long will Nigerians have to pay with their savings—and their lives—before the government takes decisive action to end the scourge of kidnapping?
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