By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Kidnappers of a staff member of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, Omoniyi Eleyinmi, who was abducted last Monday while returning home from the office, have released him after the payment of a ₦7 million ransom.
Eleyinmi was seized from his Supare home by armed men who had laid an ambush at the entrance of his house. They whisked him away on a motorcycle, shooting sporadically during the attack.
Another victim, who was abducted alongside Eleyinmi, was said to have escaped while the kidnappers were taking them away.
A relative of the victims, who preferred to remain anonymous, told Nigerian Tribune reporter yesterday that Eleyinmi was released in a bush after the ransom was paid.
He, however, disclosed that three of the suspects were arrested in a forest while sharing the ransom. The suspects have since been moved to Akure, the state capital.
According to him, the kidnappers initially demanded ₦100 million, but later reduced it to ₦7 million after negotiations with the family.
Meanwhile, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the release of the university worker and the arrest of three suspected kidnappers.
The PPRO said the suspects are currently undergoing interrogation and that some items traced to them were recovered.
He said: “I can confirm to you that our operatives arrested three suspected kidnappers in connection with the kidnapping of two AAUA lecturers. The suspects are currently undergoing profiling and interrogation.
“Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, Adebowale Lawal, has directed that the suspects and all recovered exhibits be transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad for discreet and thorough investigation. Further details will be communicated to you.”