Nollywood Actress Shares Harrowing Kidnap Story: 'We Slept in the Bush with Insects Crawling on Us'

Nigerian skit maker and actress, Stephanie Isuma, popularly known as Calabar Chic, has shared a disturbing account of her recent abduction. In an interview, Calabar Chic recounted how she and a friend were ambushed by kidnappers along the Benin bypass while returning to Lagos from a funeral in the East. 

The captives endured five terrifying days without proper food, water, or shelter. Calabar Chic described the living conditions as unbearable, saying, "We were surrounded by men with sophisticated guns. We weren’t allowed to speak unless spoken to. The forest was infested with insects, and we slept on bare ground with no protection" 

The kidnappers, identified as armed herdsmen, constantly issued threats and at one point attempted to chop off Calabar Chic's fingers as a warning. She said the ordeal was worsened by the uncertainty and fear of being killed. "I didn’t know how I survived those five days," she admitted. 

Calabar Chic's release came only after her family and that of her companion managed to raise the demanded ransom. They were set free and forced to walk a long distance to reach the nearest road, physically exhausted and emotionally broken. 

Reflecting on the traumatic experience, Calabar Chic opened up about her ongoing struggle with depression and previous suicide attempts. Despite it all, she believes she is alive for a reason. "There were times I didn’t want to wake up. But I had friends and family who reminded me that I was here for a purpose. That support helped me heal," she said, affirming her commitment to continue creating content and using her voice to inspire others facing silent battles.