The Pirates have requested a ransom of 1.9 billion FCFA for the release of Ewane Roland, the Divisional Officer of Idabato.
Authoritative sources disclosed to MMI that the abductors have issued additional demands, including 10 generators, 200 Yamaha horsepower flying boats, and the release of their associates currently held at the Buea Central Prison, as prerequisites for the release of the DO and the Stores Accountant. The pirates have not detailed the exact number of individuals they wish to have released, yet their demands further complicate an already tense situation.
The situation regarding the ransom demand is still ambiguous, leaving both the government and Roland’s family in a state of uncertainty, while anxiety among his relatives continues to escalate. An official response from the government regarding the pirates’ demands has not yet been issued.
While the situation is complex, the latest development brings some relief to his family, knowing that he is still alive.
Background
On October 1, 2024, suspected Nigerian pirates abducted Ewane Roland and Etongo Ismaiel, the Stores Accountant of the Idabato Council. Almost three weeks following the incident, the kidnappers have reached out to Roland’s family with a ransom demand, exacerbating the crisis.
On October 15, 2024, South West Governor Bernard Okalia Bilai convened a private meeting with Nigeria’s Consul General for the South West and North West regions, Ambassador Taofik Obasanjo Coker, to discuss the matter at hand. The meeting held at the Governor’s office included the Governor’s legislative, judicial, and security and defence teams.
After the meeting, Ambassador Coker assured the public of Nigeria’s strong dedication to working alongside Cameroonian authorities to ensure the safe return of the abducted officials.
“We have requested the Governor to provide us with any updates concerning this situation,” he remarked, highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to addressing the crisis.
This recent indication of life may serve as crucial evidence to expedite the efforts aimed at securing the release of the kidnapped individuals. Many are asking whether the government of Cameroon will concede to the demands of the abductors or seek further negotiations.
