Tension continues to grip the Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State following the abduction of 13 individuals, including eight students who were on their way to write the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), along the Port Harcourt-Bille waterways on May 6, 2025.
The victims were seized after pirates hijacked two passenger boats plying the route, taking all passengers hostage. Three weeks later, the captors have reportedly reached out to the victims’ families, demanding a staggering ransom of N100 million for their release.
Dr. Osaki Miller, a native of Bille Kingdom and former Youth President of the community, confirmed the development during a press briefing in Port Harcourt.
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He raised alarm over the safety and wellbeing of the kidnapped students, stressing that their families are emotionally shattered and financially incapable of meeting such a demand.
“These are young students who were only on their way to write their exams. Their parents are traumatised, and no family in our community can raise such an outrageous amount,” Dr. Miller said. “We are deeply worried. Time is ticking, and the authorities must act fast.”
He called on the State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), and relevant security agencies to take urgent action, noting that previous reports and protests had not yielded any concrete results.
Adding to the concern, Mr. Fibite Bibi, former Chairman of the Bille Community, revealed that one of the captives—a uniformed security officer—was released by the abductors last Friday. However, it remains unclear whether any payment was made for his freedom.
But right now, they are demanding N100m for the students and Bille residents that were abducted. Where will that money come from?” Bibi questioned. “The security agencies should please take the necessary action. “
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has assured the public that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the hostages. Spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko stated that the police, in coordination with other security outfits, have intensified their operations to rescue the victims and bring the culprits to justice.
As the days drag on, hope hangs in the balance for the families of the abducted students, with many calling for swift government intervention to prevent a tragedy.
