Family cries out over missing traveller en route to Benue, abductors demand N30m

Relatives of Imoter Barnabas Terkaa have expressed deep concern over his sudden disappearance after he reportedly went missing while travelling from Lagos to Benue State, with suspected kidnappers demanding a ransom of N30 million.

Terkaa, who is said to work at Jason’s Lounge on Kajola Road in the Ogba area of Lagos, was reported to have set out on the trip a few days ago.

Family members disclosed that communication between him and his wife was lost while he was travelling along the Otukpa–Otukpo axis in Benue State.

About a day after he went silent, his wife reportedly received a call from unidentified individuals who demanded N30 million in exchange for his freedom.

Since that initial contact, however, the alleged abductors have not reached out again and their lines have remained unreachable, heightening fears about his condition.

The family, speaking through the Mdzough u Tiv (MUT) Lagos State Chapter, noted that key details including the transport company or motor park he used are still unknown, making it more difficult to track his movement.

They also said it remains unclear whether the incident has been formally reported to authorities in either Lagos or Benue State.

“We are appealing to the public for any useful information that can assist in locating him,” a statement from the group read.

“Any clue, no matter how little, could help in advancing the search and ensuring his safe return.”

The family has called on anyone with helpful information to come forward as search efforts continue.

Attempts to get a response from the Benue State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.