Abducted from his Abuja residence in Kubwa, Austin Ilom, a bank staff member from a commercial bank in Suleja, has tragically passed away after being taken by kidnappers active in the nation’s capital.
Joe Igbokwe, an All Progressives Congress chieftain, shared the distressing news on his official Facebook page, revealing that Austin was abducted three weeks ago and a ransom demand of N50 million was made by the assailants.
Despite efforts to secure his release, the bank refused aid, citing the abduction’s occurrence outside work premises.
Even Austin’s brother-in-law, a serving senator, held back involvement until the bank contributed. Ultimately, only 3 million was provided by the bank, while colleagues and friends raised a total of 11.5 million.
After the kidnappers collected the 11 million and requested the remaining balance, the family rushed to retrieve Austin. Sadly, upon arrival at Bwari hospital, before receiving water, he tragically passed away.
When approached for comment, the Federal Capital Territory Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, mentioned, “I am attempting to gather information regarding this incident.”