The kidnappers of Mrs. Rosemary Ofem, a fish seller in Cross River State, have demanded a ransom of N5 million for her safe release.

The abduction occurred on September 26, 2023, when Mrs. Ofem, along with others, was taken hostage while traveling by boat near Ikang in Bakassi Local Council while en route to purchase fish for her business.

A family member, confirming the incident to The Guardian on Tuesday, October 3, disclosed that Mrs. Ofem had left Ugep, located in Yakurr Local Council of the state, bound for Ikang when she was abducted.

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Remarkably, just one day before her abduction, on Sunday, October 1, she had attended a special church service at the Church of God Mission in Ugep, where she was an active worshipper.

The kidnappers initiated contact on the following day, October 2, instructing Mrs. Ofem to communicate with her family. In their communication, they demanded the hefty sum of N5 million, despite her desperate pleas and cries.

This demand has placed immense financial strain on the family, as Mrs. Ofem was the primary breadwinner, solely depending on the sale of fish to provide for her household.