Kidnappers demand N42m for nonagenarian monarch

                                                    
Kidnappers of the paramount ruler of Tombia, Christian Otobotekere, 92, have demanded N40m ransom from his family before they will set him free.

Christian, the acting clan head of Ekpetiama Kingdom in the Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, was abducted after six gunmen invaded his residence.

It was gathered that he was about to have his bath when the gunmen struck and and forced him into their vehicle.

The vehicle was later set ablaze when they got to the waterside, where they had kept a speed boat to escape.

The kidnappers, according to reports, had initially demanded N100m before they reduced the ransom to N40m.

Family members had been initially apprehensive as regards the health of the monarch, but felt reassured when they were allowed to speak to him and he reassured them he was healthy.

Family sources said the kidnappers were working on wrong information that the monarch was a wealthy man who had won many contracts with a multinational oil company.

A police source said their operatives were aware of the ransom demand, but would ensure that the monarch was released unconditionally.

The source, who did not want his name mentioned, said the police were working with the Department of the State Services and other security agencies to ensure that the monarch regained his freedom.

He said, “We are working with other security agencies on the monarch’s kidnap. We are on their trail and we will get to the location they are. The monarch would soon regain his freedom.”