The two players have now regained their  freedom from their kidnappers. The footballers were reportedly kidnapped while on their way to Lagos after their teams went on vacation due to the coronavirus pandemic.

A statement released by Enyimba FC read;
“Enyimba midfielder Ekundayo Ojo and Abia Comets’ Benjamin Iluyomade, who were kidnapped on Sunday have regained their freedom. The footballers were released on Wednesday night following combined efforts of Enyimba Football Club and families of the players. It would be recalled that the footballers were kidnapped along the Benin-Owo expressway as they journeyed to Akure following the suspension of the Nigeria Professional Football League amid concerns over the global pandemic, Covid-19. The players have since reunited with their families.”

Another player identified as Emma James, who escaped the attack confirmed the abduction.

He said “We were traveling on the road when the gunmen came out from the bush and attacked us. They shot sporadically before abducting some people in the vehicle including the two players but I managed to escape.”

The state Police Spokesperson, Tee-Leo Ikoro confirmed the abduction and also said that one of the players have been rescued.

Ikoro added “We have been able to rescue one of the players and our men are already in the bush after the kidnappers. I will get the details of incident as soon as I get the information from the DPO of Ipele.”