What was initially reported as a kidnapping case has taken an unexpected turn after a married woman, Oluchi, was allegedly discovered in a Delta State hotel with a man believed to be her lover.
The woman had earlier been declared missing, prompting her family to raise alarm and seek public assistance after receiving demands for a ransom reportedly worth millions of naira. Her children, including a daughter living in Canada, had appealed for support while efforts were made to secure her release.
Investigations by the police, however, reportedly uncovered that the abduction story had been staged. Acting on intelligence, detectives traced a phone number linked to the case to a hotel in Delta State, where Oluchi was eventually located.
A source familiar with the investigation said, “Police traced the number of the man to a hotel in Ubiaroko, Delta State. They met the man and the kidnapped woman inside a hotel. They called the husband, and he was happy. It was at the station that the police broke the news to him. The wife begged the husband not to tell her children what actually transpired.”
Reacting to the development, her daughter Anita expressed heartbreak and frustration, saying the revelation had deeply affected the family.
“My mum has been released. My mum is involved in this kidnapping case. I only did what I did to save my mom. The family is in shock. This is not right. This has shattered my family. My dad has some health issues. This is so unfortunate. What did I do wrong?
“My reputation has been ruined. I am short of words. I am so mad. I have no hand in this. I never knew. I only wanted my mother back home. The law will take its course. I am sorry this is happening. I only did what any daughter would do. My family has been shattered.”
She further explained that no ransom was paid and that funds already raised would be returned to donors.
Members of the Harmony Ladies Club, who had supported the family during the alleged kidnapping, also expressed disappointment after learning the circumstances surrounding the case. The group said it had acted in good faith, believing Oluchi was genuinely in danger.
“When news of her alleged abduction broke, the club acted swiftly in good faith. Out of sisterhood, love, and a sense of community responsibility, we rallied immediately.
“Our members provided extensive emotional, logistical, and financial support during what we believed was a life-threatening crisis, carrying the heavy burden of anxiety alongside her family.”
The club added that it felt betrayed after investigators reportedly established that the kidnapping was fabricated.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident and disclosed that four suspects have been taken into custody as investigations continue.
“I can confirm the incident and also let you know that four people have also been arrested in connection with the incident.”
