Pacesetter Queens Clarify Status of Kidnapped Former Player Ihotu John Rebecca, Express Concern for Her Safety

Pacesetter Queens Football Club has issued an emotional statement addressing reports of the alleged abduction of their former player, Ihotu John Rebecca, along the Benin Expressway in Edo State. In a statement shared on the club’s verified X account, the Oyo State-based side clarified that Rebecca is no longer under contract, having been released during the ongoing transfer window in the Nigeria Women’s Football League Premiership.

Despite clarifying her contractual status, the club emphasized that its concern extends beyond football, expressing deep worry about her safety. Rebecca was allegedly abducted by unknown gunmen who are demanding a ransom of ₦20 million for her release. The club’s statement sought to provide clarity while underscoring that the welfare of former players remains a priority.

Key Points

The club’s clarification addresses potential confusion about their responsibility toward a former player.
The statement balances legal accuracy (no contractual obligation) with moral concern (safety remains priority).
The ₦20 million ransom demand highlights the severe financial burden on victims’ families.
Rebecca’s abduction adds to the growing list of Nigerians targeted along the Benin Expressway corridor.
The club’s public statement may pressure authorities to prioritize the case.

Pacesetter Queens walks a careful line between clarifying Rebecca’s contractual status and expressing genuine humanitarian concern, as the kidnapped footballer’s family faces the agonizing wait for her safe return amid a ₦20 million ransom demand.

Sources: Club Statement