The families of the 20 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who were recently rescued from captivity have disclosed that they paid substantial ransoms, amounting to millions of naira, prior to learning of their release. Reports indicate that some relatives paid over N3 million, while others reportedly contributed as much as N6 million to secure the freedom of their loved ones.

The corps members were rescued alongside another hostage in Imo State on Wednesday, thanks to the coordinated efforts of various security agencies, including the military and the Department of State Services (DSS). The harrowing experience of the families highlights the desperate measures they took to ensure the safety of their children.

One mother recounted her ordeal, stating, "I paid as much as N3 million as ransom while I was hoping that nothing happened to my child. I ran helter-skelter to raise the money. I eventually got the money and sent someone to Imo State to deliver the ransom." Her words reflect the anxiety and fear that many families faced during the abduction.

Another father shared his story, revealing that he had to gather N6 million to secure his son’s release. He explained, "We had to converge somewhere in Ibadan, Oyo State to put the money together. Some of us even changed the money to dollars and sent it to Imo State to meet whoever was coming to pick it." Despite the relief of having his son back, he expressed concern over the financial burden, saying, "I’m just a farmer. How do I repay the N6 million I borrowed?"

The financial strain experienced by these families underscores the ongoing challenges posed by kidnapping for ransom in Nigeria. The NYSC members' abduction and the subsequent ransom payments raise serious questions about the safety of young Nigerians serving in various capacities across the country. As families celebrate the safe return of their loved ones, the emotional and financial toll of such incidents continues to linger, leaving many in distress over their future.