A video circulating on social media reportedly shows suspected kidnappers on a video call demanding ransom from the family of victims while assaulting them. The incident is said to have taken place in Ekiadolor, Edo State.
In the footage, individuals identified as captors are seen speaking with relatives of the victims via video call. They are heard demanding payment for the release of those held, while also showing scenes of the victims being beaten. The video has spread widely online, drawing condemnation and concern from viewers across Nigeria.
Ekiadolor, a community on the outskirts of Benin City, has in recent years recorded cases of kidnapping and armed attacks along surrounding roads and rural areas. Security challenges in parts of Edo State have been linked to armed groups operating in forested areas and along highways, targeting travelers and residents for ransom.
The authenticity of the video has not been independently verified by authorities as of press time. The Edo State Police Command has not issued an official statement confirming the incident, the identities of the victims, or whether arrests have been made.
Kidnapping for ransom remains a significant security challenge in several parts of Nigeria. Victims’ families are often forced to negotiate directly with captors, with little guarantee of safety even after payment is made. Human rights groups and security analysts have repeatedly called for stronger intelligence gathering, rapid response units, and improved community policing to address the trend.
The circulation of such videos raises additional concerns about the psychological impact on victims’ families and the public, as well as the potential for copycat actions. Security experts advise against engaging directly with kidnappers without involving law enforcement and warn that sharing graphic content can further traumatize victims and obstruct investigations.
Residents in Ekiadolor and surrounding communities have previously called for increased police presence and better road security to curb attacks. The state government has at various times announced measures including surveillance operations and collaboration with local vigilante groups to improve safety.
As of now, it remains unclear if the victims in the video have been released or if security agencies have launched an operation linked to the case.
The Nigeria Police Force encourages members of the public with information on kidnapping incidents to report to the nearest station or use official emergency lines, noting that timely information is critical to rescue operations and investigations….See More
