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A building in Otukpo, Benue State, has been publicly identified as an alleged ransom collection point used by kidnappers, according to citizen journalist and activist Meddy Olotu.
Olotu, who visited the location and shared a video of the site, claimed that several residents and victims of kidnapping incidents have pointed to the building as a spot where relatives of abducted persons are often directed to deliver ransom payments. He linked the location to the abduction of candidates traveling for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination earlier this year, adding that another victim he interviewed also identified the same site.
The building, reportedly belonging to an association, is situated a short distance from Ojali and is surrounded by thick vegetation. Residents allege that individuals involved in collecting ransoms either wait in front of or behind the structure during transactions.
Olotu has called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the claims and intensify surveillance in the area. He also urged relevant authorities and community members to clear the overgrown bushes around the building and adjoining road to improve visibility, enhance security, and deter criminal activities.
As of the time of the report, security agencies had not issued any official statement regarding the allegations, and the claims by residents could not be independently verified.
The exposure has sparked concern among residents of Otukpo and surrounding communities over the rising cases of kidnapping in the area.
