The National President of the Afenifere Youth Council, Eniola Ojajuni, has been released after spending 12 harrowing days in captivity. His release was confirmed on Saturday by Biodun Aderohunmu, the National Secretary of the Youth Council, who briefly announced, “He has been released.”
Ojajuni was abducted on Monday, February 17, while en route to Abuja for an important meeting. His kidnapping raised significant concern, not only due to his position within the Afenifere group, a prominent socio-political organisation in the southwestern region of Nigeria, but also because it highlighted the increasing threat of kidnapping for ransom across the country.
The abduction of Ojajuni took place while he was traveling through a known route for many politicians, civil society leaders, and other individuals making their way to Abuja. The attack occurred near the area of the kidnapping hotspot, which has been known for high-profile abductions in recent years. Ojajuni’s abduction follows a disturbing trend of increased kidnappings that have affected not only politicians and public figures but also ordinary citizens across the country.
A viral video that surfaced during his captivity showed Ojajuni revealing details about the demands made by his kidnappers. According to Ojajuni, the abductors had requested a staggering ₦100 million in ransom as well as two tricycles, an unusual demand in a country already struggling with the impacts of violent crime and abduction.
At the time of his release, there was no official statement regarding whether the ransom was paid or if the release was facilitated through other means. However, his return sparked relief among his family, friends, and associates, who had feared for his safety and well-being during the tense days of captivity.
During his time in captivity, Ojajuni appeared in a video in which he spoke about his situation, providing details about the ransom demands. This video quickly went viral on social media, drawing attention to his case and shedding light on the ever-growing trend of kidnappings that have plagued many parts of Nigeria.
In the video, Ojajuni, though visibly distressed, remained calm and composed as he relayed the kidnappers’ demands. His plea for help resonated with many Nigerians who have been affected by similar crimes, with social media users expressing solidarity with Ojajuni and calling for action to address the growing security concerns in the country.
Ojajuni’s safe return is a victory, but it is also a reminder that the fight for safety and justice in Nigeria is far from over.
