A 31-year-old man, Chukwemeka Destiny, has been arrested by the Delta State Police Command for allegedly plotting the kidnap of his aunt, the same woman who raised him from childhood.
The suspect was paraded before journalists on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Bright Edafe, who described the case as both shocking and troubling. According to the police, Destiny allegedly paid a total of N900,000 to individuals he believed were kidnappers to abduct his aunt.
What makes the case more disturbing, police said, is the close relationship between the suspect and the intended victim. Investigations revealed that Destiny lived with his aunt from the age of five until he turned 15. During that period, she took full responsibility for his upbringing, including his education and welfare.
After leaving her home as a teenager, however, Destiny reportedly cut off contact with the family. Though he was occasionally seen around the neighbourhood, he did not maintain any meaningful relationship with his aunt or other relatives.
Police said the suspect’s alleged plan began recently when he contacted some individuals to carry out the abduction. According to Bright Edafe, Destiny paid the agreed sum in two instalments—first N200,000, followed by N700,000 the next day.
Unknown to him, however, the men he approached were not kidnappers. Instead, they reportedly pretended to cooperate with him, gathered evidence of his intentions, and eventually handed him over to the police.
“Unknown to him, the people he contacted were not kidnappers. They used him as bait and handed him over to the police, thereby saving the life of his aunt,” Edafe said.
The police spokesman noted that the case reflects a growing pattern of betrayal and violence involving people who are close to their victims. He cited other incidents where employees have attacked employers or security guards have turned against those they were meant to protect.
“All of a sudden, something came to his mind that he should kidnap the same aunt who trained him and saw him through school. We have seen cases where workers kill their employers or security men attack their bosses just to steal valuables. It is a worrying pattern,” he said.
During interrogation, Destiny reportedly admitted to the crime but failed to provide a clear reason for his actions. In his statement, he expressed regret and confusion over his decision.
“Sincerely speaking, I am guilty of what happened. I don’t know what came over me. I can’t tell,” he said.
The suspect, who said he is married with two children, attributed his actions to “the devil” when further questioned by investigators. He also disclosed that he operates a haulage and building materials business and that the money he paid for the planned kidnapping came from his business earnings.
“I made a deposit of N200,000 at first, then the next day I paid N700,000, making N900,000,” he said.
Reacting to the development, the aunt—whose name was not disclosed—said she was deeply shocked and hurt when she learned of the plot. Struggling to hold back tears, she described her emotional state upon hearing the news.
“I was shocked… crying,” she said.
She confirmed that Destiny is her elder sister’s son and recalled how she took care of him for many years. According to her, she raised him like her own child, providing for his needs and ensuring he received an education.
Despite her efforts, she said he left home at the age of 15 and gradually distanced himself from the family. Although he was sometimes seen in the area, he never returned to visit or rebuild ties with her.
“He just disappeared. He would be around the street but would not come to our house,” she said.
When asked whether she would prefer mercy or strict punishment for the suspect, the woman said she believes the law should take its full course.
“Anything they know to do to such people, they should do it to him,” she said.
Her response was commended by the police, who said it reflects the kind of firmness needed to tackle rising cases of violent crime, especially those involving relatives and trusted associates.
According to Edafe, it is not uncommon for families to try to shield suspects because of emotional ties. However, he warned that such actions can encourage crime and lead to more serious consequences.
“In situations like this, people sometimes try to shield suspects because they are relatives. But many of these cases end tragically. It is important to allow the law to take its course,” he said.
Kidnapping has remained a major security challenge in many parts of Nigeria, with victims often targeted for ransom. Although most cases involve strangers or criminal gangs, there have been growing reports of insiders or acquaintances playing roles in such crimes.
Authorities have repeatedly warned that anyone involved in planning or supporting kidnapping—regardless of their relationship with the victim—will face the full weight of the law.
The suspect is currently in the custody of the Raiders Squad of the Delta State Police Command, where investigations are ongoing. Police say he will be charged to court once the investigation is concluded.
As the case continues to unfold, it has sparked public concern and debate about trust, family values, and the increasing desperation that drives some individuals to commit serious crimes.