Retired Major Joe Ajayi, abducted from his home in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, has tragically died while in the custody of his kidnappers, despite his family paying a ₦10 million ransom for his release.
Ajayi, aged 80, was kidnapped on May 21 at around 11:30 p.m. Initially, the abductors demanded a ₦50 million ransom, but the family was unable to meet the demand.
During his captivity, his health worsened significantly due to lack of access to his essential medication. Requests to send his drugs were reportedly met with additional financial demands that the family could not afford.
When it became clear that the retired officer’s condition was deteriorating beyond recovery, the kidnappers lowered the ransom to ₦10 million. Believing he was still alive, the family agreed and paid the amount. They were then directed to a location where, tragically, they found his lifeless body.
His remains have been placed at the mortuary in Kabba Specialist Hospital. The incident has sparked outrage within the state, especially in Kabba-Bunu, where insecurity has been on the rise.
Reacting to the development, the Bunu Leaders Forum condemned the circumstances of his death, describing it as a national failure and a disgrace to Nigerian leadership. In a joint statement, Professor Olu Obafemi and Dr. Ade Abanida, chairman and secretary of the forum respectively, mourned the loss of a respected elder and patriot.
“It is with broken hearts that we extend our deepest condolences to the family and all who knew Major Joe Ajayi,” the statement read. “He wasn’t only a retired officer but a courageous war veteran who fought for Nigeria’s unity during the civil war. Post-retirement, he dedicated his life to ministry, mentorship, and community service.”
The forum emphasized that Major Ajayi represented wisdom, peace, and integrity in Bunu land and described his death as a cruel betrayal by a country that failed to protect him.
In response to the tragedy, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo addressed residents during Eid celebrations in Okene, urging calm and assuring the public that the state government’s efforts to combat crime were yielding results.