Imo traditional ruler kidnappers demand N200 million in ransom

HRH Eze Joel Ndenkwo, the traditional chief of Isiala Umudi Autonomous community in Nkwerre Local Government Area of Imo state, has been abducted, and his captors have demanded N200m in ransom.

The monarch, who is also a business tycoon, was kidnapped last Friday in front of his office on Owerri's Tetlow Road, which is always bustling.

According to a source close to the monarch, his captors called the family on September 11 and wanted N200 million as payment for the release of the man.

The source revealed that the kidnappers used the monarch's phone to call one of his siblings.

"It's true; His Royal Highness' kidnappers have called. On Sunday, they made their first family phone contact since taking him hostage. They requested N200m from the family on Monday. They used his phone to make the call. I'm not sure where they'll acquire that type of cash "Added the source.

Investigations are still going on, according to CSP Michael Abattam, the command's spokesperson, who verified the occurrence.