The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested four individuals, including two sisters, for allegedly staging a fake kidnapping to extort N5 million from their father. The suspects, according to the police, conspired to carry out the scheme with the full knowledge and participation of the supposed victim.
The incident began on July 18, 2025, when a resident of Jikwoyi Phase II, Mr. Innocent, reported his 16-year-old daughter, Lead Way Innocent, missing after she left home to sit for an examination at Government Secondary School, Karu. Days later, he received a ransom call from unknown persons demanding N5 million for her release. Following the report, police operatives launched a discreet investigation.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, digital tracking led investigators to a residence in Jikwoyi Phase II, where the missing teenager was found in the company of Mrs. Tina Mayowa. Both were reportedly seen eating and conversing freely, showing no signs of distress. The investigation later led to the arrest of Lead Way’s elder sister, Joy Innocent, and her boyfriend, Mayowa Adedeji, who is legally married to Tina.
Police investigations revealed that Joy and her boyfriend conspired to stage the kidnapping, with Lead Way willingly participating in the plot. While Joy stayed home pretending to be unaware, Lead Way remained hidden, allowing their father to suffer emotional trauma as he scrambled to raise the ransom. All four suspects have reportedly confessed to the crime and are currently in custody.
Condemning the act, the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Adewale, described the incident as a disturbing case of betrayal within a family. He urged parents to pay closer attention to their children’s emotional wellbeing and encouraged honest communication at home. The suspects are expected to be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.
