Kidnappers of Ondo regent demand N20m ransom

BARELY 48 hours after the regent of Akungba Akoko in Ondo State, Princess Toyin Omosowon, was kidnapped with her aides, their abductors have demanded for a N20 million ransom.

The regent was abducted with three of her aides, Tuesday, by six persons along Akure/Akungba-Akoko Expressroad, while returning to the palace after attending an inaugural lecture delivered by the Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Professor Igbekele Ajibefun.
Vanguard gathered that her abductors have opened a line of communication with the family and the community.

A dependable source, who spoke in confidence, said: “That is their asking price, but we have informed them that the amount is on the high side.
“We are still talking and we hope they will see reason and ask for a reasonable amount. They did not even allow us to speak with the traditional ruler.”

Meanwhile, security operatives are investigating to get a clue to those within the community who might have acted as informants to the abductors, as some workers in the university may have acted as informants on the movement of the traditional ruler.

Youths restive, varsity shut
Authorities of the university have shut down the institution, following allegation that youths in the community were planning to attack.

The youths are accusing the Vice Chancellor of being responsible for the plight of their regent.
Meanwhile, the community remained in pensive mood, yesterday. A community leader and Seriki of Akungba-Akoko, Chief Awesu, urged youths to conduct themselves peacefully.

He enjoined residents of the town to pray fervently for the release of the regent.

Prayers were held in churches and mosques within the community for the safety and release of the Oba.