Afenifere Youth Leader Abducted in Abuja; Kidnappers Demand ₦100 Million Ransom
The National President of the Afenifere Youth Council, Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, was abducted by unidentified gunmen in Abuja on Monday, February 17, 2025. The assailants have reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦100 million for his release.
According to a statement issued by the National Secretary of the council, Abiodun Aderohunmu, the kidnapping occurred under violent circumstances, during which Prince Ojajuni sustained gunshot wounds to his buttocks. The council expressed profound concern for his safety and has made a fervent appeal to the abductors for his immediate and unharmed release.
“The Afenifere National Youth Council is deeply saddened to announce the kidnapping of its National President, Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, in Abuja, Nigeria,” Aderohunmu stated. “The unfortunate incident occurred yesterday, and the kidnappers have demanded a ransom of ₦100,000,000. During the kidnapping, Prince Ojajuni sustained a bullet wound on his buttock. We are deeply concerned about his safety and well-being, and we urge the kidnappers to release him unharmed.”
Prince Ojajuni is renowned for his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and development within Nigeria. His abduction has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting calls for swift action from both governmental and security agencies. The Afenifere Youth Council has implored these bodies to expedite efforts to secure his safe return. Additionally, they have urged any individuals possessing pertinent information to come forward and assist in the investigation.
As of now, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) police command has not released an official statement regarding the incident. The absence of public information from law enforcement agencies has heightened concerns among citizens and members of the Afenifere community.
This abduction underscores the escalating security challenges faced in various regions of Nigeria, where incidents of kidnapping for ransom have become increasingly prevalent. The Afenifere Youth Council, along with other civil society organizations, continues to advocate for enhanced security measures and proactive strategies to combat such criminal activities.
The broader Afenifere organization, a prominent Yoruba socio-cultural group, has yet to issue a public response to this incident. However, it is anticipated that they will join the chorus of voices condemning the abduction and calling for immediate action to ensure Prince Ojajuni’s safe return.
The community remains on high alert, and there is an urgent call for collaborative efforts between security agencies, governmental bodies, and the public to address the pervasive issue of insecurity and to prevent future occurrences of such tragic events.