Nigerian female footballer Rebecca John has regained her freedom after being abducted by unknown gunmen in Edo State.
According to information obtained from a close family source on Wednesday, the player has been released by her captors but is yet to physically reunite with her relatives.
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The source disclosed that John is currently safe and recuperating while arrangements are being made for her final return home.
Confirming the development, the family expressed gratitude to supporters who stood by them throughout the difficult period.
“We have just received information from the family that Becky has been released. Glory be to God. However, she is yet to reunite physically with her family. She is safe and currently recuperating, and we continue to pray that the final stage of her safe return will be completed without any complications,” the source said.
Special appreciation was also extended to members of the Soccer Queens Exclusive WhatsApp Group, a community of women football players who reportedly contributed financially toward efforts that led to her release.
The family commended the players for their unity and compassion during the ordeal.
“The family specially appreciates the players in the Soccer Queens Exclusive WhatsApp Group who came together and contributed financially towards her release,” the source added.
Rebecca, a former player of Pacesetter Queens, was kidnapped along the Benin Expressway in Edo State while travelling earlier this year.
Reports indicated that the attackers intercepted the vehicle she was travelling in and took her into the bush alongside other passengers.
It was earlier reported that her abductors demanded a ransom of ₦20 million, which was later reduced to ₦10 million.
However, it could not be independently confirmed whether any ransom was paid before her release.
Her freedom has sparked relief across Nigeria’s women’s football community, where players, officials and supporters had earlier called for prayers and support for her safe return.
