Abductors Of Benue Polytechnic Rector Demand N70m Ransom

The sum of N70 million naira as been demanded as ransom for the release of Benue State Polytechnic acting Rector, Emmanuel Barki by his kidnappers.

Osun Defender reports that three staff membersof Benue State Polytechnic including the acting rector, were reportedly abducted on Thursday.

Barki and two other management staff of the institution, and their driver were said to be traveling back to Ugbokolo from an official assignment in Makurdi, the state capital when they were kidnapped along the Otukpo/Otukpa Road. One of the victims was later released due to ill health.

According to a source close to the rector’s family, who wished to remain anonymous, the kidnappers had contacted the family, demanding a ransom of N70 million.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, confirmed the abduction and stated that an investigation was ongoing.

The Security Adviser to the Governor, Joseph Har, also confirmed the incident but mentioned he was unaware of any ransom demand.

“The incident happened, but I’m not aware they demanded ransom, but security men are combing the bushes to rescue them,” Har said.