The kidnappers of Mrs. Rosemary Ofem, a fish seller in Cross River State, have insisted on a ransom of N5 million for her safe release.
The incident occurred on September 26, 2023, when she and several others were abducted while traveling in a boat near Ikang, situated in Bakassi Local Council, as they were en route to purchase fish for resale.
A family member, confirming the situation to The Guardian on October 3, disclosed that Ofem had departed from Ugep in the Yakurr Local Council of the state on her way to Ikang when she was abducted.
“On Sunday, October 1, a special service was held in her honor at the Church of God Mission in Ugep, where she worships,” the family member stated.
“The kidnappers made contact on October 2 and demanded that she communicate with her family.
“Despite her pleas and distress, they insisted on the N5 million ransom. However, it raises the question of where she will obtain such a sum, as she solely earns a living by selling fish to support her family. Her husband is not in a position to come up with such a substantial amount either. She is, in fact, the primary breadwinner for the family.
“It’s important to note that she was not alone at the time of her abduction. She was taken alongside others who had also embarked on the journey to purchase fish.”
