The family of Pa. Dada James Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okoloke community in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, has appealed to well-meaning individuals and corporate organizations for assistance in raising the N50 million ransom demanded by his kidnappers.
The first-class traditional ruler was abducted from his palace at around 2:00 am last Thursday and taken to an undisclosed location. His captors initially demanded N100 million for his release but later reduced it to N50 million after negotiations.
A palace source who spoke to The Guardian debunked earlier reports that the ransom had been negotiated down to N12 million.
“As of yesterday, Sunday, we, as family members, managed to raise N25 million, but the kidnappers are insisting on N50 million. They originally demanded N100 million,” the source said.
The family expressed deep frustration over the lack of support from government officials and politicians, particularly those representing Kogi West. “Our major frustration as a family is that people in government and politicians who are our friends and cousins have abandoned us in this struggle to save the life of the traditional ruler. Especially members of the National Assembly from Kogi West and of Kabba origin. Some of them have even blocked our lines, and we are no longer able to reach those we expected would help.”
The family noted that Ogunyanda’s health is deteriorating and that they were forced to sell personal belongings to raise N25 million. “We could have completed the N50 million if we had received any help from our politicians.”
They used the opportunity to appeal to well-meaning Nigerians and corporate bodies to come to their aid. “The life of our king is in danger; we need help from anywhere possible—journalists, bankers, teachers, traders, etc.”
The family also called on prominent figures, including Senator Dino Melaye, Senator Sunday Karimi, Hon. Leke Abejide, Hon. Faleke, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Oduagham, and other political leaders in the state to assist in raising the funds. “The entire family is in distress over the welfare of our king, who was abducted five days ago.”
Additionally, they urged pastors, imams, and other religious leaders to continue praying for his safe return.
The family further appealed to security agencies to intensify efforts in rescuing the monarch alive and unharmed. “We value him so much. We are praying that God will grant the security agencies the upper hand to rescue all victims in captivity.”
