The National President of the Afenifere Youth Council, Prince Eniola Olajuni, remains in captivity as kidnappers have demanded a ransom of N100 million and two tricycles, bringing the total amount to N110 million for his release.
The shocking demand was confirmed by the National Secretary of the Council, Abiodun Aderohunmu, who revealed that Olajuni was shot three times and is in critical condition.
Desperate Plea for Help as Kidnappers Set Execution Deadline
A disturbing video surfaced online on Monday, showing Olajuni pleading for his life, with a kidnapper pointing an AK-47 rifle at his chest. In the video, he called on Nigerians to contribute whatever they could to raise the ransom, fearing execution by 3 p.m. on Monday.
“Nigerians, please help me! Your donation—N100,000, N50,000, or N1,000,000—can go a long way in saving my life. My name is Prince Eniola Olajuni. God bless you. Aderohunmu, please help me spread this video,” he begged.
Abduction Occurred En Route to Abuja for Business Meeting
Speaking to journalists, Aderohunmu disclosed that Olajuni was kidnapped on February 17, 2025, while traveling to Abuja for a business meeting.
“It has been a week since the abduction happened. At first, the kidnappers demanded N100 million, but when we could not meet the deadline, they added two tricycles to the demand. Each tricycle costs an estimated N5 million, bringing the total ransom to N110 million.”
He further expressed concern about Olajuni’s severe injuries, stating, “He has suffered three gunshot wounds to his buttocks. We are only praying for a miracle. Afenifere is doing all it can to raise the funds to secure his release.”
Security Experts Slam Authorities Over Failure to Track Kidnappers
The growing wave of kidnappings across Nigeria has raised serious concerns about security lapses and the inability of law enforcement agencies to track criminals.
Security analyst Jackson Ojo criticized Nigeria’s intelligence and communication agencies, arguing that the prolonged hostage situation was unacceptable in a digital age.
“For days, the kidnappers have been using mobile devices to communicate and release videos. Yet, we have a Ministry of Communication, intelligence agencies, and security forces unable to trace them. It is a shame on our authorities that they cannot track these criminals using their digital footprints.”
Similarly, another security expert, Chidi Omeje, highlighted the lack of response from the Nigeria Police, stating that Olajuni’s case was just one of many kidnappings happening daily in the country.
“This is just one case that has gained public attention, but many others happen without being reported. The police have shown no urgency or capacity in handling this situation. Instead of addressing this, the Force Public Relations Officer is busy bantering on social media while lives are at stake.”
Rising Kidnappings and Economic Hardship in Nigeria
Analysts argue that the surge in kidnappings is directly linked to rising unemployment and economic instability. Omeje pointed out the connection between joblessness and crime, urging the government to address the root causes of criminal activities.
“While crime has no excuse, there is a clear link between high unemployment rates and rising criminality. The government must take proactive steps to create jobs and tackle poverty, or else we will continue to see spikes in violent crime.”
Authorities Silent as Deadline Approaches
As of the time of reporting, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has yet to officially comment on the situation. Efforts to reach Force Public Relations Officer, SP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, were unsuccessful, as calls and text messages were ignored.
With the ransom deadline approaching, concern grows over Olajuni’s fate, leaving Nigerians questioning whether security agencies will act swiftly or if another high-profile abduction will end in tragedy.
