20 allegedly kidnapped along Calabar–Akwa Ibom waterway as abductors demand ₦100m

CALABAR – About 20 passengers have been reportedly abducted along the Calabar–Akwa Ibom waterways after their vessel was intercepted by armed kidnappers.

According to CrossRiverWatch, the travellers boarded the “Heavenly Grace” boat in Calabar on the morning of 23 April 2025, bound for several riverine communities in Akwa Ibom State.

Eyewitnesses say the vessel was overtaken roughly two hours into the journey by a group of hooded gunmen who forced the crew to stop and ordered all passengers ashore.

An anonymous source who spoke with CrossRiverWatch confirmed that one of the victim’s family members, Mr Odey Idika, has been directly contacted by the abductors. They are demanding a ransom of one hundred million Naira (₦100,000,000) for the release of Mr Idika and his fellow captives.

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When informed of the situation, the Commander of the Anti-Cultism Unit in Calabar advised Mr Idika’s family to file a formal complaint with the Nigeria Police Force, assuring them that a thorough investigation would follow.

Local security analysts warn that kidnappers have increasingly targeted waterways in the region, exploiting limited naval patrols and poor communication infrastructure.

They call for enhanced riverine security measures, including more frequent patrols by the Marine Police and deployment of surveillance boats.