In a harrowing ordeal that highlights the growing insecurity on Nigerian roads, Rofiat Lawal, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, has been freed after her family paid a ransom of N1.1 million. Lawal was kidnapped on Tuesday along the notorious Benin-Ore Expressway while traveling from Benin, Edo State, to Ibadan, Oyo State, to resume her primary assignment.
Her release came after days of intense negotiations and collective efforts from friends, family, and well-wishers. Here’s how the story unfolded.
The Kidnapping
Rofiat Lawal was abducted on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, while traveling along the Benin-Ore Expressway—a route infamous for kidnappings and armed robberies. The kidnappers initially demanded a staggering N20 million ransom for her release, a sum far beyond her family’s means.
After negotiations, the kidnappers reduced the ransom to N5 million, but even this amount proved unaffordable for Lawal’s family.
Community Rallies to Raise Ransom
Faced with the kidnappers’ threats and mounting pressure, Lawal’s family, friends, and community members sprang into action. Through collective efforts, they managed to raise N1.1 million, which was transferred to the kidnappers on Friday afternoon.
A close friend of the victim, Agbakwara, revealed the tense moments leading up to the ransom payment. “The kidnappers pressured us, warning that if we failed to meet their demands, we should not expect her return,” he said in a Facebook post.
The Release
After the ransom was paid, Lawal was released late Friday night and reunited with her family by Saturday morning. She was taken to a hospital for medical attention following her traumatic experience.
Agbakwara expressed immense gratitude to everyone who contributed to her safe return. “For hours, we anxiously waited. Finally, around 10 pm, we received the long-awaited call: they had been released and taken to the hospital,” he shared.
Why This Matters
Rofiat Lawal’s ordeal is a stark reminder of the pervasive insecurity on Nigerian roads, particularly the Benin-Ore Expressway, which has become a hotspot for kidnappings. Her story also highlights the resilience of communities in the face of adversity, as friends and family rallied together to secure her freedom.
However, the payment of ransoms raises concerns about the cycle of kidnapping, as it often emboldens criminals to continue their activities.
What’s Next?
While Lawal’s release is a relief, the broader issue of insecurity remains unaddressed. Authorities must take decisive action to improve security on major highways and crack down on kidnapping syndicates.
For now, Lawal and her family can begin the process of healing, thanks to the support of their community.
