Kidnappers make ´sizeable´ demand for Mikel dad

John Obi Mikel’s agent has confirmed a ‘sizeable’ ransom demand has been made by the kidnappers of the Chelsea midfielder’s father.

Michael Obi, Mikel’s father, has not been seen since Friday after going missing in the Nigerian city of Jos, and it was confirmed earlier this week that the kidnappers had been in touch with his family.

A ransom fee of 80,000 pounds had been widely reported in the media, but a statement released by the Sport Entertainment and Media Group, who represent Mikel, says the figure is incorrect.

“SEM advises that reports from Nigeria of an 80,000-pound ransom demand for the return of John Obi Mikel’s father is not true,” the statement reads.

“We confirm that Michael Obi has been abducted and that the kidnappers have been in touch with the family and representatives of the family and that discussions for Michael’s safe release have begun.”

“A sizeable demand has been made but for security reasons, we are unable to release details of the amount.”

“Mikel would like to thank his family, friends, Chelsea FC and his agents for their support and at this time it is Mikel’s intention to play for Chelsea this weekend, encouraged by his family to do so.”