Bishop Babajide Bada of the Akoko Anglican Diocese confirmed the shocking ransom demand. He stated, “The unfortunate incident happened last Sunday between 4 pm and 5:30 pm. Reverend Olowolagba was traveling from Ipesi with his wife and children when the abduction occurred.”
The victims were reportedly on their way to Ikaram when they were seized by armed men. The Bishop explained that the abduction went unnoticed until the following morning. That was when it became apparent that the family had not arrived at their destination.
“The kidnappers first demanded N10 million. But after we began raising the money, they increased the ransom to N75 million,” he continued. This sharp rise in the ransom amount has left the community in despair.
Struggle to meet demands in abduction of Anglican priest
As matters unfold in the abduction of the Anglican priest, the community is struggling to gather the money. The Amotekun Corps, a regional security force in Ondo, has confirmed the abduction. Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, the Corps Commander, assured that efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims. “It is true that this happened last week. We are working with other security agencies to ensure the safe return of the victims,” Adeleye stated.
Security analysts have warned that the rise in ransom demands, especially during festive period. Local residents have raised concerns over the growing insecurity. They lament that it is exacerbated by the increased presence of armed groups preying on travellers.
This abduction of Anglican priest mirrors a similar attack in Anambra State just days before Christmas. In that incident, armed gunmen abducted a Catholic priest. Experts believe that the rise in these crimes is linked to the increasing lawless groups in parts of Nigeria.
A sociologist, Toluwani Adedeji, says kidnapping has become a business. “Kidnapping has become a lucrative business for criminal groups. This happens especially in regions with weak security presence. This alarming trend is often grows during festive periods when families travel, making them easier targets.”
Fola Ayodele, a public affairs analyst, raises other concerns. “These kidnappings are not just about the ransom. They reflect the breakdown of law and order, with communities left to fend for themselves. We need more coordinated efforts between local and federal security forces.”
Calls for prayers and reforms
As the scenario in the abduction of the Anglican priest plays out, local leaders have called for prayers. They urge the people of Ikaram Akoko to intensify prayers for the safe return of the victims. Sheik Basiru Aminu, the chairman of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Akoko North West, expressed deep concern.
“These are our sons and daughters. We must unite in prayer and action to ensure their quick and safe release,” Aminu said. “It is time for all of us, regardless of faith, to come together and demand stronger security measures.”
Interestingly, no formal report was filed with the state police command. Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, the police spokesperson, told the Punch that they have not been contacted. This lack of official reporting has raised concerns about the coordination between different security agencies in handling the case.
Experts have called for urgent reforms, with an emphasis on improving community policing. This, they argue, will enhance the capacity of local security agencies like Amotekun. “The solution lies in strengthening the intelligence network and ensuring that community involvement in securing their own safety,” Adedeji said.
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