Hoodlums Demand N30m For Release Of Kidnapped Chief Imam

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Chairman of the Edo State Chapter of Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs NSCIA, Abdulazeez Igbinidu, has called on the Edo State Government and Security Agencies to take all necessary steps towards rescuing the Chief Imam of Uromi and President of the Edo/Delta branch of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria MSSN Sheikh Murtadho Muhammad from abductors den.

The Source reports that  the Muslim Cleric was reportedly abducted at about 2.00 pm on Saturday July 12, 2025, in Uromi, Esan North East Local Council of Edo State by suspected hoodlums.

According to eyewitness accounts, Sheikh Muhammad was kidnapped just a walking distance from his residence while trying to purchase some food items for  his family members.

The unfortunate incident has since caused palpable fears among residents of the  area, particularly Muslim faithful,.

Most residents are said to be greatly concerned about the safety of the Muslim Cleric, and are  fervently praying for his safe return .

The abductors are  demanding a  ransom of about N30 million.

As at the time of reporting. neither the Edo State Police Command ,nor the State authorities had reacted to the development.

However, confirming the incident to the Media on Sunday, July, 13, 2025 Alhaji Igbinidu condemned  the dastardly act , while also  calling for his unconditional release.

He urged all relevant authorities to ensure that the victim is safely reunited with his family and religious members.

“We understand the kidnappers are asking for a very huge amount of money and we don’t have such.

“Even if you have, if you do such a thing, you are encouraging them.

“Government and security agencies should intervene. They are the ones that have the apparatus for security.

“So they should do everything possible to ensure that Imam is released unconditionally and unhurt

“Government should also put all efforts to ensure that the citizens are able to sleep with their two eyes closed, as well as walk freely without fear of being abducted or assassinated”, the NSCIA Chairman stated.