Victims of the infamous Vegetable Market kidnapping and other abduction incidents in Edo State have narrated before a court how kidnappers allegedly collected more than ₦63 million in ransom from their families before securing their release.
The testimonies were presented during the ongoing trial of suspects facing charges related to kidnapping and other criminal offences. The witnesses gave detailed accounts of their ordeals, describing the physical and emotional trauma they endured while in captivity.
According to the victims, they were abducted at different times by armed men who transported them to remote hideouts, where they were held under harsh conditions. They told the court that the kidnappers repeatedly threatened to kill them unless their relatives paid substantial sums of money.
One of the witnesses recounted how family members struggled to raise the demanded ransom by borrowing money, selling personal property and seeking assistance from friends and community members. The victim said negotiations with the kidnappers lasted several days before an agreement was reached, leading to the eventual release of those held captive.
Collectively, the victims informed the court that more than ₦63 million was paid in ransom across the various kidnapping incidents before they regained their freedom.
The witnesses also described the difficult conditions they faced during captivity, stating that they suffered hunger, fear and uncertainty while being moved through forest locations by their captors. Some testified that they were physically assaulted or threatened with firearms to compel their families to comply with ransom demands.
Prosecuting counsel presented the testimonies as part of the evidence against the defendants, arguing that the accounts corroborate the charges brought before the court. The prosecution maintained that the evidence would demonstrate the suspects’ involvement in organised kidnapping operations within Edo State.
The defence counsel, however, exercised the right to cross-examine the witnesses, challenging aspects of their testimonies and urging the court to carefully evaluate all evidence before reaching any conclusions. The accused persons have pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.
The trial judge subsequently adjourned proceedings to allow for the continuation of witness testimonies and the presentation of additional evidence.
The case has renewed public attention on the growing challenge of kidnapping for ransom across parts of Nigeria. Security experts note that criminal gangs increasingly target travellers, traders, farmers and residents, often demanding substantial payments from families in exchange for the safe release of victims.
Civil society organisations have repeatedly called for stronger measures to combat kidnapping, including improved intelligence gathering, enhanced surveillance, closer collaboration between security agencies and local communities, and the swift prosecution of offenders.
Legal analysts emphasise that the ongoing trial represents an important test of the criminal justice system’s ability to hold perpetrators accountable while ensuring fair trial standards are observed. They note that successful prosecution of kidnapping cases can serve as a deterrent to criminal networks and strengthen public confidence in the justice system.
Residents of Edo State have also urged the government to intensify security operations around major highways, markets and rural communities, where kidnappings have become a persistent concern.
As the court proceedings continue, families of the victims hope justice will be served, while security agencies maintain that efforts to dismantle kidnapping syndicates remain a priority. The outcome of the trial is expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to curb kidnapping and improve public safety across the state and the country.
