The family of Ihotu John Rebecca, a Nigerian female footballer abducted along the Benin Expressway, has appealed to well-meaning Nigerians for assistance as her captors demand a ₦20 million ransom.
Naija News learnt that Rebecca, who plays for Pacesetter Queens FC in the NWFL Premiership, was reportedly kidnapped while returning home.
Her abduction has sparked concern within the women’s football community and beyond.
According to Vanguard, her family revealed that the kidnappers have contacted them and are demanding ₦20,000,000 for her release.
Describing the situation as dire, the family said the young footballer’s life could be at risk if urgent intervention is not secured.
“This is a young woman who has dedicated her life to representing Nigerian women’s football at the highest domestic level. Right now, she is in danger, and time is critical,” the family said in a statement.
Kidnapped Nigerian Footballer, Ihotu-John-Rebecca
The family made a passionate appeal to key figures within and outside the sporting community to intervene.
“We are making an urgent appeal to football stakeholders, club executives, sponsors, government officials, sports administrators, and every well-meaning Nigerian who can help,” they added.
Rebecca is regarded as one of the promising players in the NWFL Premiership, and her kidnapping has once again highlighted growing concerns about safety on major highways, including the Benin Expressway.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official confirmation from security agencies regarding efforts to secure her release.
Family members, however, insist that every passing moment is crucial as they continue to seek assistance to meet the ransom demand and ensure her safe return.
