Not fewer than thirteen young indigenes of Cross River State kidnapped while en route to a Christian conference in Abuja are reportedly being starved and subjected to brutal treatment by their abductors, with ransom demands pegged at ₦10 million per victim.
The victims were seized eight days ago at Aloma Village in Ofu Local Council of Kogi State while travelling from Calabar to attend an international programme organised by the Holiness Revival Movement Worldwide in Kwali, according to GUARDIAN.
What was intended as a spiritual journey has since turned into a harrowing ordeal marked by fear and worsening uncertainty.
Among those taken is Evangelist Prince Perfect Bomba, the Cross River State Evangelist of the Holiness Revival Movement, who was abducted alongside 12 others.
He is known within the movement as a music instructor and South South Regional Prayer Warrior, roles that have earned him recognition for his dedication to ministry.
Family sources revealed that the captives have endured severe hardship, including starvation and physical abuse, as negotiations continue under distressing conditions. The kidnappers’ demand of ₦10 million per person has further deepened the anguish of families already overwhelmed by emotional and financial pressure.
Evangelist Bomba’s case has drawn particular attention due to his recent circumstances. He had just completed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme in Kano State and was awaiting possible employment with the Cross River State Government before his abduction.
A native of Itigidi in Abi Local Council, he is widely described by acquaintances as humble, disciplined, and deeply committed to his Christian faith. His birthday, expected on the 6th of this month, now approaches while he remains in captivity rather than at home with loved ones.
The emotional strain has hit his family especially hard, as his father, Pastor Bomba, who serves as Chairman of the Cross River State Indigenous Gospel Ministers Forum (CRSIGM) in Abi Local Council, now faces the crisis of his son’s disappearance while he himself has long been a source of spiritual support to others.
Concerned relatives and community members have described the situation as a humanitarian emergency, stressing that the victims were ordinary citizens travelling solely for a religious gathering.
“This is no longer just about one family; it is about 13 young lives and the broader question of safety for Nigerians travelling across the country,” a family source stated.
The incident has once again highlighted growing insecurity along Nigerian highways, particularly affecting travellers on religious and non-political missions. It has also intensified calls for urgent government intervention.
Families have appealed to Governor Bassey Otu to immediately engage security agencies and the Kogi State Government to secure the safe release of the abducted youths without further delay.
They warned that time is running out, noting that prolonged captivity could worsen the victims’ physical and psychological condition.
Beyond official action, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and members of the public have also been urged to intensify prayers and advocacy efforts to support ongoing rescue efforts.
As anxiety deepens across affected communities, the fate of the 13 Cross River youths remains uncertain, with growing pressure mounting for swift and decisive action to prevent a tragic outcome.
