Fulani herdsmen were behind my abduction, says Afenifere youth leader 

 

Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, the National Youth President of Afenifere, has confirmed that he was kidnapped by Fulani herdsmen on February 17 while travelling to Abuja.

 

The incident reportedly occurred around 2pm in Akunnu Akoko, Ondo State.

 

Ojajuni recounted his ordeal in a Facebook post on Friday, stating that he is still receiving medical treatment following the ordeal.

 

He expressed gratitude to those who supported him financially, spiritually, and emotionally during the difficult time.

 

He also acknowledged those who reached out to his wife with words of encouragement.

 

The Afenifere youth leader assured Nigerians that once he recovers, he will formally appreciate everyone who stood by him.

 

According to him, “I was kidnapped by Fulani herdsmen on the 17th of February on my way to Abuja in Akunnu Akoko around 1:42pm.

 

“I’m undergoing serious medical treatment , besides I want to use this opportunity to thank everyone who supported me massively financially, spiritually and by calling my dear wife for words of encouragement. Once I’m out of hospital bed I’ll come out to appreciate you all specially,” Ojajuni added.

 

 

 

The release of Ojajuni was secured with at least N17million, according to a top family source, per Sahara Reporters.

 

The money was said to have been paid to secure his freedom from the kidnappers after about 12 days.

 

According to the top sources, Ojajuni’s wife reportedly personally delivered the ransom to the abductors in Akure before his release.

 

They also noted that despite repeated pleas, the Nigerian government did not provide financial assistance, and security agencies were also unable to track the kidnappers’ location until the ransom was paid.

 

“We did not hear anything from the government despite repeated promises, and the police efforts did not yield results. We had no choice but to raise funds ourselves,” one of the sources said.

 

Ojajuni is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed location for security reasons.

 

Prior to his release, the Afenifere group had condemned the deteriorating security situation and demanded urgent intervention from the Ondo and Kogi state governments.

 

The group had urged authorities to act swiftly to ensure Ojajuni’s safe rescue, noting that the abduction took place near the Ondo-Kogi state boundary.

 

Ojajuni was kidnapped on Monday, February 17, 2025, while travelling to Abuja.

 

The Afenifere Youth Council’s National Secretary, Abiodun Aderonhunmu, disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded a N100million ransom.