Prince Eniola Ojajuni, the National President of the Afenifere Youth Council (AYC), has been released after 12 days in captivity. Ojajuni was abducted on February 17, 2025, while traveling from Ondo State to Abuja. His kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N100 million.
The release was confirmed on March 1, 2025, by the National Secretary of the AYC, Abiodun Aderohunmu, who stated that Ojajuni is currently receiving medical attention. The Coalition of Yoruba Youth Leaders expressed immense relief over his release and extended gratitude to individuals and organizations that played a role in securing his freedom.
Ojajuni’s abduction had drawn widespread condemnation and calls for his immediate release from various groups, including the Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria. In response, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the deployment of the Intelligence Response Team to prioritize Ojajuni’s safe rescue.
The circumstances surrounding Ojajuni’s release, including whether a ransom was paid, remain undisclosed. His abduction and subsequent release have reignited discussions about the pervasive insecurity in Nigeria, particularly the rise in kidnappings targeting both prominent figures and ordinary citizens.
This incident underscores the urgent need for authorities to take stronger action against kidnapping and insecurity, with a renewed commitment to protecting all Nigerians.
