Edo State: Gunmen abduct Family of Nine in Benin+Akure Road

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted nine family members including a nursing mother and five other children in Edo State.

The victims included the nursing mother, six children, including a small baby and her two younger sisters. 

They were reportedly abducted at Eko-Abeku-Iyowa road, within Evboneka community along the Benin-Akure road, at about 5 pm while returning from school, on Monday, February 2, 2026.

The Head of the family, Festus Bamidele, said the abductors released the nursing mother and her small baby after a heavy rainfall on the fateful day.

He said the family learnt about the incident when the nursing mother and the baby got home.

He further disclosed three other victims of pre-kg classes were later rescued by vigilante men and police operatives at Evboneka community.

Bamidele explained that four others, who are between the ages of 11 and 26 years are still being held captive by the kidnappers.

Among those still being held by the kidnappers are his children, junior sister and a sister-in-law.

He said the kidnappers have contacted the family and are demanding the sum of ₦260 million ransom.

When contacted, the State Police Command Spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, who confirmed the incident, said operatives of Ekiadolor Division engaged the abductors in a gun duel and successfully rescued five of the victims unhurt while four others were taken away.

"The command in collaboration with hunters and vigilantes, has launched an intensive bush combing exercise for the kidnappers with efforts ongoing to rescue the remaining victims," she said.