Kidnappers of, Otto Canon Chimenem, third runner-up in the 2014 edition of Gulder Ultimate Search, have demanded N5million for his release, according to multiple media reports.
The University of Port Harcourt mechanical engineering graduate was reportedly kidnapped in the city over the weekend.
His friend, Raphael Koko, broke the news, saying “Otto has been kidnapped.
“He was in Lagos for an event last week and now I’m getting calls from mutual friends that he was kidnapped in Port Harcourt over the weekend.
“We still don’t have all the details yet. It’s just very surprising and shocking.”
The ransom demand was made on Monday.
Sources close to the victim’s family say the matter has been reported to the police.
Chimenem, a 27-year-old model, actor, and entrepreneur hails from Obio/Akpor LGA in Rivers State.
Contrary to some media reports, he did not win the 2014 Gulder Ultimate Search.
The winner that year was Chinedu Ubachukwu.
Chimenem, however, won the consolatory Viewers’ Choice Award and was compensated with a cash prize of N1.5m and brand new Ford Focus car.
His last social media post was on July 25.
It indicated that he was in Cotonou, the capital of Benin Republic.
