By Andrew Haruna
Published: May 21, 2025 | Kabba-Bunu, Kogi State
A retired military officer, Major Joe Ajayi, who was abducted from his residence in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, has tragically died in captivity, despite the payment of a ₦10 million ransom by his family.
Ajayi, a retired Major in the Nigerian Army, was reportedly kidnapped at about 11:30 pm on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, by gunmen who stormed his home, shooting sporadically and instilling fear in the quiet community.
Ransom Demands Delayed Over Medical Neglect
Sources close to the family said the abductors initially demanded ₦50 million, which the family could not immediately raise. During the prolonged negotiations, Major Ajayi’s health deteriorated, as he was denied access to his medications.
Despite pleas from the family to send him his prescription drugs, the kidnappers allegedly demanded an additional fee for such humanitarian relief—a price the family was unable to pay.
When it became clear that Major Ajayi’s health had worsened, the abductors reduced the ransom to ₦10 million, perhaps in a bid to salvage something before his imminent death.
“Believing he was still alive, the family quickly mobilized and paid the ₦10 million ransom,” a local source told The Bureau News. “But after the payment, the kidnappers directed them to a location, only for them to find his lifeless body.”
His body was later deposited at the Kabba Specialist Hospital mortuary, sparking widespread sorrow and outrage in the local community and across the state.
Rising Insecurity in Kogi: A Worrying Trend
Major Ajayi’s death is just one of several recent cases of high-profile kidnappings in Kogi State. In early May, Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, the traditional ruler of Okoloke in Yagba West Local Government Area, was also abducted from his home. As of the time of this report, the monarch remains in captivity.
This disturbing trend has intensified fears among residents and has cast a shadow over the efforts of security agencies and the government to curb insecurity in the region.
Governor Ododo Reacts, Promises Security Overhaul
Speaking during Eid celebrations in Okene, Governor Usman Ododo addressed the rising wave of kidnappings, urging residents to remain calm and cooperative.
“We are aware of the security challenges. Our administration is taking decisive action to flush out criminal elements from Kogi State. Progress is being made,” he said.
