On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Rofiat Lawal was abducted along the Benin-Ore Expressway while traveling from Benin, Edo State, to Ibadan, Oyo State, to resume her primary assignment in Ogbomosho. ​

Initial Ransom Demand and Negotiations

The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦20 million for Lawal’s release. However, after negotiations and appeals from her family, the amount was reduced to ₦5 million. Despite the reduction, the family could not afford the sum. ​

Fundraising Efforts and Ransom Payment

In a desperate bid to secure her release, Lawal’s friend, identified as Agbakwara, spearheaded fundraising efforts involving colleagues, friends, and community members. Through these collective efforts, they managed to raise ₦1.1 million, which was transferred to an account provided by the kidnappers on Friday, February 28, 2025. ​

Release and Reunion

Following the ransom payment, Lawal was released by her captors late Friday night. She received medical attention and was reunited with her family on Saturday morning, March 1, 2025. Agbakwara expressed profound gratitude to all who contributed and supported the efforts to secure Lawal’s release.

Allegations Against Bus Driver

In a concerning development, Lawal’s sister alleged that the driver of the bus in which Lawal was traveling may have been complicit in the abduction. She claimed that the driver handed Lawal over to the kidnappers, raising serious questions about the safety and security of passengers on Nigerian highways. ​

NYSC’s Response

The Oyo State NYSC Coordinator, Odoba Oche, confirmed the abduction and stated that security operatives had been alerted to the incident. The NYSC has yet to release an official statement regarding Lawal’s release and the allegations against the bus driver. ​

Rising Insecurity on Nigerian Highways

This incident highlights the growing insecurity on Nigerian highways, particularly along the Benin-Ore Expressway, which has become notorious for kidnappings and armed robberies. Travelers are increasingly concerned about their safety, prompting calls for enhanced security measures.​

Government and Security Agencies’ Role

There is an urgent need for the Nigerian government and security agencies to address the escalating insecurity on the nation’s highways. Implementing robust security measures, increasing patrols, and ensuring the safety of citizens are imperative to restore public confidence in road travel.​

Community Vigilance and Support

The swift fundraising efforts and community support that led to Lawal’s release underscore the importance of communal solidarity in times of crisis. However, relying on ransom payments is not a sustainable solution, and proactive measures must be taken to prevent such incidents.​

Conclusion

While the safe return of Rofiat Lawal brings relief to her family and friends, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive security challenges facing Nigeria. It calls for immediate and concerted efforts from all stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of citizens, particularly those traveling on vulnerable highways.