Crime & Justice

Afenifere Youth Leader Eniola Ojajuni Released After 12 Days in Captivity

On February 17, 2025, Prince Eniola Ojajuni, the National President of the Afenifere Youth Council, was abducted while traveling to Abuja. His kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦100 million and two tricycles for his release. The incident raised significant concern among various socio-political groups and the general public, highlighting the escalating insecurity in Nigeria.

Public Appeal and Kidnappers’ Ultimatum

During his captivity, a distressing video surfaced showing Ojajuni pleading for his life. In the footage, an assailant pointed an AK-47 at his chest as he implored Nigerians for financial assistance to meet the ransom demands. He stated, “Nigerians, please help me! Your donation—₦100,000, ₦50,000, or ₦1,000,000—can go a long way in saving my life.” The kidnappers threatened to execute him if the ransom was not paid by 3 p.m. on a specified Monday, intensifying the urgency of the situation.

National Outcry and Calls for Immediate Action

The abduction prompted widespread condemnation and calls for swift action:

Afenifere’s Stance: The Pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation. In a communiqué signed by Secretary General Chief Sola Ebiseni and National Publicity Secretary Justice Faloye, they urged the governments of Ondo and Kogi states, along with relevant security agencies, to act promptly to ensure Ojajuni’s safe release.
Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF): The AYCF labeled the abduction alarming and demanded Ojajuni’s immediate release. Yerima Shettima, the forum’s President-General, highlighted the kidnappers’ exorbitant ransom demand and their threat to execute Ojajuni if unmet. He emphasized Ojajuni’s significance as a beacon of hope and a symbol of youth aspirations, condemning the act as a grievous affront to the nation’s collective conscience.
Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria (FNYLPPN): This forum expressed deep disturbance over the abduction, especially after a distressing video of Ojajuni pleading for help circulated. They called on President Bola Tinubu, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Director of the Department of State Services, the Inspector General of Police, and all Nigerians to take action to secure Ojajuni’s release. They also appealed to the abductors to reconsider their actions and spare his life.

Law Enforcement Response

In reaction to the abduction:

Inspector General of Police’s Directive: The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the immediate deployment of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to prioritize Ojajuni’s safe rescue. The police emphasized their commitment to dismantling criminal networks and enhancing national security.
Manhunt Initiated: Operatives of the Nigerian Police Force’s IRT launched a manhunt for Ojajuni’s abductors. The police assured the public of their dedication to securing his safe return and advised against spreading unverified information that could jeopardize rescue efforts.

Release and Confirmation

After 12 harrowing days in captivity, Ojajuni was released on March 1, 2025. The National Secretary of the Afenifere Youth Council, Abiodun Aderonhunmu, confirmed his release in a brief message stating, “He has been released.” Details of the terms of his release remain unclear as of the time of this report.

Implications and Ongoing Concerns

Ojajuni’s abduction and subsequent release underscore the pervasive insecurity challenges in Nigeria. The incident has:

Highlighted Vulnerabilities: The kidnapping of a prominent youth leader emphasizes the risks faced by individuals, regardless of their societal standing.
Unified Calls for Action: Diverse groups, transcending ethnic and regional divides, have united in demanding improved security measures and the protection of citizens.
Prompted Re-evaluation of Security Strategies: The incident has spurred discussions on the need for more effective strategies to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes.

Conclusion

While the release of Prince Eniola Ojajuni brings relief to his family, associates, and the nation, it also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria. The collective outcry and swift response from various sectors highlight the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address and mitigate such threats, ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.