Nigerian Afro-pop singer Emuemu Oghala Goodnews, widely known as Gnewzy, has disclosed the amount paid for his release following his kidnapping.

Gnewzy was abducted in April 2024 along Eklat Road in Ughelli, Delta State. His manager and brother, Obas9ice, narrowly escaped the abduction.

The kidnappers initially contacted Dilly Umenyiora, the CEO of Gnewzy’s record label, demanding a ransom of $200,000. Gnewzy was eventually freed on May 3.

In a recent interview with HipTV, Gnewzy shared details of his ordeal, revealing that the full ransom amount of $200,000 was paid for his release.

He recounted the events leading up to his abduction, explaining that he had been in Delta State for a radio tour and had decided to host a small listening party in Ughelli, his hometown, to wrap up the event.

After the party, while heading back to their apartment, Gnewzy and his brother stopped to pick up someone who ultimately decided not to join them.

As they were making a U-turn on their way home, they were suddenly confronted by men dressed in police uniforms who forced them out of their vehicle.

The attackers, who identified themselves as police officers, threatened to shoot Gnewzy’s brother if he did not flee into the nearby bushes. The assailants then covered Gnewzy’s face and transported him to a different location.

Despite the traumatic experience, Gnewzy reported that he was not physically harmed; the abductors provided him with food and instructed him to cooperate, warning him of severe consequences if he attempted to resist or escape.

Gnewzy’s revelation sheds light on the alarming trend of criminals impersonating law enforcement to carry out abductions and other crimes.