In a shocking development that has left both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigerian political scene in disarray, gunmen have abducted Dr. Adekunle Raif Adeniji, a high-ranking director at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja. This abduction has not only thrown the capital into heightened security alert but has also sent ripples through the political landscape as the kidnappers demand a hefty N350 million ransom for the director’s release.
A Disturbing Silence
The troubling incident reportedly occurred over two weeks ago, although details of the abduction remain largely shrouded in secrecy. Dr. Adeniji, the Director of Administration for the party, is indeed in the hands of his captors. The director, who assumed his position just a few months ago in August 2024, was abducted from his residence in Abuja.
Despite the growing public concern, no formal statement has emerged from either security agencies or party officials. This silence is fueling further anxiety, with many wondering whether the Nigerian authorities are taking adequate measures to secure the release of the high-profile figure.
The Kidnapping Incident: An Inside Look
The abduction took place under what can only be described as a chillingly efficient operation. Gunmen stormed Dr. Adeniji’s home, overpowering any security measures in place. According to an anonymous source familiar with the case, the kidnappers made their demands clear immediately. They contacted the family and insisted on a ransom payment of N350 million for the director’s release. “They said it was the price for his life,” the source disclosed.
This marks the latest in a series of high-profile kidnappings in Nigeria, where wealthy or politically-connected figures are increasingly becoming targets for ransom. It follows a similar pattern seen in the recent abduction of retired Brigadier-General Maharazu Tsiga, former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), who was kidnapped last month in Katsina State.
Background on Dr. Adekunle Raif Adeniji
Dr. Adeniji’s role as Director of Administration at the APC’s National Secretariat has been integral to the smooth functioning of the ruling party. Appointed following the resignation of his predecessor, Professor Alaba Adediwura, Adeniji quickly became a key figure within the party’s administrative machinery.
His abrupt disappearance has shocked colleagues and supporters, many of whom describe him as a dedicated and hardworking individual. According to sources within the party, Adeniji’s responsibilities included overseeing various aspects of party operations, including coordination and administrative logistics. His leadership had been seen as a potential stabilizing force within the party, which has faced internal challenges in recent years.
The Ransom Demand: A Reflection of Growing Insecurity
The audacious nature of the kidnapping and the demand for such an enormous ransom underscores the alarming rise in insecurity that has plagued Nigeria, particularly in the northern and central regions. The issue of kidnapping for ransom has reached disturbing proportions, with many high-profile individuals being targeted.
A few weeks ago, the family of retired Brigadier-General Maharazu Tsiga was also subjected to a ransom demand of N250 million after his abduction in Katsina. The abduction of Tsiga was carried out with similar ruthlessness, as armed assailants stormed his residence and whisked him away. The Nigerian government has been criticized for its inability to curb this growing menace, with many wondering whether enough is being done to protect vulnerable individuals.
Political analysts have expressed concern that the spate of kidnappings may be linked to larger social and political issues in the country. One expert, who spoke on condition of anonymity, explained that kidnappings like these may reflect growing tensions in the political elite and the desire of criminal groups to exploit perceived vulnerabilities. “The political elite are increasingly becoming prime targets for these criminal groups,” he said. “The insecurity is not just about ordinary citizens, but high-ranking individuals who are seen as sources of financial gain.”
The Impact on APC and National Politics
For the APC, the abduction of one of its key administrators is a blow to the party’s image and operations. While the party has remained silent on the matter, internal discussions within the party suggest growing concern over the rising insecurity in the nation’s capital. The APC leadership is under pressure to take decisive action, not only to secure the release of Dr. Adeniji but also to address broader security concerns that are increasingly affecting the nation.
In light of the abduction, calls for better protection of citizens, particularly political figures, are expected to grow louder. “We cannot allow criminal elements to hold the nation’s leadership hostage,” a senior APC member remarked. “This cannot become the new normal.”
The Growing Kidnapping Crisis in Nigeria
Dr. Adeniji’s abduction is part of a wider trend of insecurity that has marred Nigeria for years, particularly in the northern and central regions. Kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative criminal enterprise, with some groups demanding millions of naira from the families of the victims. While the Nigerian government has made some efforts to tackle the problem, the continued occurrence of these incidents raises questions about the effectiveness of security policies.
In a recent report by the Nigerian Police Force, over 3,000 people were abducted across the country in 2024 alone, with hundreds of millions of naira paid in ransom. While some victims have been freed after their families or employers meet the demands, many others are still held captive, with no hope in sight.
As this trend escalates, it seems clear that Nigeria’s security forces are facing a significant challenge in curbing the alarming rise of kidnappings. The government’s response to these rising incidents is expected to be a key issue in the 2025 general elections, with citizens and political leaders alike demanding greater action.
