Edo Woman Kidnaps Self, Collects N5 Million Ransom from Husband, Police Confirm

The Edo State Police Command has arrested a woman, Chioma Success Adaniken, for allegedly staging her own kidnapping and collecting a ransom of N5 million from her husband.

In a statement released on Monday night, the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, explained that the arrest followed a report made at the New Etete Police Division in Benin City by the suspect’s husband, Paul Adaniken.

According to the police report, on October 27, 2025, Mr. Adaniken informed officers that he left his wife, Chioma Success Ezebie, and their three-year-old son, Andrea Ojiezelabor, at home before going to his shop. Later that day, he received a phone call from an unknown person who claimed that his wife and child had been kidnapped.

The caller demanded a ransom of five million naira for their release.

After receiving the complaint, detectives from the New Etete Division began covert and open investigations. The Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit also carried out a full cyber analysis and intelligence-led operation, which quickly produced important leads.

According to ASP Ikoedem, the investigation revealed surprising details. The victim’s cousin, Osita Godfrey, who was initially believed to be helping the family, was arrested after evidence showed that he was involved in the plan.

His confession led to the arrest of the supposed victim, Chioma Success Adaniken, who allegedly conspired with her accomplices to fake her own abduction in order to extort money from her husband.

Another suspect, identified as Martins Chidozie, aged 23, was also arrested in connection with the case. All the suspects have reportedly made useful confessional statements.

The police confirmed that the full ransom amount of N5 million was recovered. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and prosecution.

The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika (fdc), commended the officers of the New Etete Division for their quick and professional response, which led to the discovery of what he described as a deceitful act.

He also warned residents to avoid acts that could disturb public peace, noting that the Command will continue to use intelligence gathering and technology-based strategies to fight crime in all forms across the state.