Image Text:

CONCERNED: John Obi Mikel

KIDNAPPERS HAVE made contact in regard to the missing father of John Obi Mikel.

Representatives of Mikel have confirmed a 'sizeable' ransom has been demanded by the kidnappers of his father, Michael.

Mikel, a Nigeria international, played for Chelsea on Sunday against Stoke despite being informed that his dad had been abducted.

Mikel’s father, who runs an inter-state transport company, was kidnapped on August 10. An alarm was raised when he failed to return home from work in Jos in central Nigeria.

Up to Monday August 15 there had been no ransom demands. Mikel’s family in Nigeria said earlier this week that they hoped he would be found “safe and well.”

John Ola Shittu, Mikel’s agent, said: “We're taking all necessary measures to find him.”

Mikel’s representatives, SEM, said in a statement on Thursday: "SEM advises that reports from Nigeria of an £80,000 ransom demand for the return of John Obi Mikel's father is not true.

"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.”