Tragedy has struck in Kogi State as retired Army Major Joe Ajayi, who was abducted from his home in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu LGA on May 21, 2025, has died in captivity—despite a ₦10 million ransom reportedly paid by his family.
Ajayi was taken at about 11:30 p.m. by heavily armed assailants who fired shots during the raid. Sources say the abductors initially demanded ₦50 million for his release. However, the family struggled to meet the demand, which led to a delay that reportedly affected Ajayi’s health, as he had no access to his medication.
“The kidnappers later demanded extra money just to send his drugs, but the family couldn’t raise the additional cost,” a community source revealed.
Eventually, the ransom demand was reduced to ₦10 million, possibly after the abductors realized he was in critical condition. The family, believing he was still alive, paid the amount.
“Once the ransom was paid, the kidnappers gave instructions on where to find him. Sadly, it was too late—he was already dead,” the source added.
Ajayi’s body has since been taken to Kabba Specialist Hospital mortuary.
Kogi State has seen a rise in kidnappings recently. Earlier in May, Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, a first-class monarch in Yagba West LGA, was also abducted from his home and remains in captivity.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, during Eid celebrations in Okene, urged residents to stay calm. “Efforts to rid the state of these criminal elements are already yielding positive results,” he assured.
