Nigeria/Global News
A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, identified as Abba, is feared to have been killed by his captors despite his family paying a ₦10 million ransom for his release.
Abba was abducted by armed bandits, and a disturbing video showed him being brutally beaten and humiliated by his captors. After the ransom was paid, the kidnappers made additional demands, including motorcycles, and eventually cut off all communication with the family.
The family is now preparing to hold a funeral prayer in absentia, according to Islamic tradition, as they fear the worst. “Since receiving the ₦10 million ransom payment, Abba’s abductors have completely cut off all communication with the family,” a source close to the family said.
The incident highlights Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, with kidnappings for ransom becoming increasingly common. The Federal Government has reiterated its policy against paying ransoms, citing the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act.
The NYSC Directorate has urged serving members to avoid nighttime travel and use designated safe routes, but critics argue that even daylight travel has become a gamble.
