The National President of the Afenifere Youth Council, Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen in Abuja. The incident, which has sparked concerns among youth groups and political circles, reportedly took place on Monday, February 17.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the National Secretary of the Afenifere Youth Council, Abiodun Aderohunmu, confirmed the abduction, revealing that the kidnappers have demanded a ransom of N100 million for Ojajuni’s release. The statement further disclosed that the youth leader sustained a gunshot wound to his buttock during the attack.
“The Afenifere National Youths Council is deeply saddened to announce the kidnapping of its National President, Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, in Abuja, Nigeria. The unfortunate incident occurred yesterday, and the kidnappers have demanded a ransom of N100,000,000,” Aderohunmu stated. “In the process of kidnapping, Prince Ojajuni was wounded by a bullet on his buttock. We are deeply concerned about his safety and well-being, and we urge the kidnappers to free him unharmed.”
Prince Ojajuni, a notable figure in Nigerian socio-political activism, has been at the forefront of youth empowerment and development initiatives. His abduction has triggered widespread condemnation, with calls for urgent intervention from security agencies. The Afenifere Youth Council, along with other concerned organizations, has called on the federal government and security operatives to act swiftly in securing his release.
“We appeal to the government and law enforcement agencies to intensify their efforts in ensuring his safe return. We also implore Nigerians with any credible information regarding his whereabouts to assist in any way possible,” the statement added.
As of the time of this report, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has yet to issue an official response regarding the situation. However, security analysts have pointed to the increasing spate of kidnappings in the country, urging the government to prioritize measures aimed at curbing criminal activities, especially in the nation’s capital.
The abduction of Prince Ojajuni has once again brought to the fore concerns over security lapses in Nigeria, particularly in Abuja, which has witnessed a surge in kidnappings and other violent crimes in recent times. Stakeholders have urged security agencies to intensify surveillance and intelligence gathering to dismantle criminal networks responsible for such heinous acts.
Meanwhile, members of the Afenifere Youth Council and other youth organizations have expressed deep concerns over the development, emphasizing the urgent need for a proactive approach in tackling insecurity. Many have taken to social media to demand justice and the immediate release of the abducted youth leader.
As Nigerians await further updates, the hope remains that swift government intervention will lead to the safe return of Prince Ojajuni and the apprehension of those responsible for his abduction.
