Family says N5m ransom, paid before Soyinka’s rescue in Abuja forest operation
By: Zagazola Makama
The family of Rasheed Soyinka, the kidnap victim rescued after a joint security operation in Abuja, has said that a ransom of N5 million was paid to the abductors before he regained freedom, contrary to security reports suggesting a ransom-free rescue.
Soyinka was abducted at gunpoint from his residence in Sabon Lugbe in the early hours of July 3, sparking a swift response from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies.
Security sources had earlier said that the victim was rescued at 12:05 a.m. on July 4, after a 40-kilometre forest operation that spanned Dafara, Gau Forest (Kuje Area Council), Kabin Mongoro, and Kwaita (Kwali Area Council). They described the operation as successful and without any casualties or ransom paid.
However, members of Soyinka’s family have now disclosed that a N5 million ransom along with cartons of Maltina drinks were delivered to the kidnappers after several rounds of negotiation and public fundraising efforts.
“When the incident happened, we were contacted and people started contributing through GoFundMe. Some of our family members even sold their cars. Some hours ago, people in our group were celebrating the rescue, but were also saying that ransom was not paid according to what they saw in the media, but I want to clarify that money was paid. It wasn’t a rescue without ransom.
“They initially demanded for N50million but we begged them and beg until they agreed to the N5million ransom. They also demanded that we should also bring carton of Martina which we did,”said Soyinka’s family member.
While confirming Soyinka’s safe return, the family said they are grateful for the security presence and eventual recovery.
