The Ujemen community in Ekpoma, Edo State, has been thrown into mourning following reports that Mr. and Mrs. Aifedighi, who were abducted on December 22, 2025, may have lost their lives while in captivity.
According to information circulating within the community, the couple had been held by suspected kidnappers for several days. Unconfirmed reports allege that the abductors demanded a ransom of ₦100 million and later claimed that the victims were killed after the amount could not be raised. As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation from security agencies regarding the circumstances surrounding the couple’s fate.
The incident has sparked widespread grief and outrage among residents, who described the development as heartbreaking, particularly as the family was unable to celebrate the festive season due to the abduction.
Community members in Ekpoma say the case highlights a growing pattern of kidnapping and insecurity in the area. Residents have expressed concern that such incidents are becoming increasingly frequent and have called for urgent intervention.
Several community leaders and residents have appealed to the Edo State Government, security agencies, and traditional institutions to take decisive action to curb the rising insecurity and restore confidence among the people. They have also urged members of the public to help draw attention to the situation by engaging relevant authorities, including the palace, government officials, and the police.
Residents warn that without swift and coordinated action, fear may continue to spread, further disrupting daily life and safety in Ekpoma and surrounding communities.
The incident serves as a painful reminder of the broader security challenges facing many communities and underscores the urgent need for sustained and collective efforts to protect lives and property.
