The National President of the Afenifere Youth Council (AYC), Eniola Olajuni, has been released after spending 12 harrowing days in captivity. He was abducted on February 17, 2025, while traveling to Abuja for a meeting. During the attack, he sustained a gunshot wound to the buttock, raising fears about his safety.
Shortly after his abduction, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦100 million and two tricycles in exchange for his freedom. The situation became even more distressing when a video surfaced online on February 24, showing Olajuni seated on the ground with a gunman pointing an AK-47 rifle at him. In the footage, he pleaded with Nigerians to assist in meeting the kidnappers’ demands to secure his release.
Negotiations and Law Enforcement Involvement
Following his abduction, Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, condemned the act and called on security agencies to take immediate action. Pressure mounted on the Nigerian government to intensify efforts in rescuing the youth leader, prompting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun to order the deployment of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) on February 26.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) assured the public that it was actively working to secure Eniola Olajuni’s safe return. Force spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi also cautioned against spreading misinformation on social media, warning that speculation could jeopardize the rescue operation. However, no official updates were given regarding negotiations, leading to mounting concerns.
Eniola Olajuni Release and Medical Treatment
On March 1, 2025, Eniola Olajuni was finally released. While the exact details of his freedom remain unclear, Afenifere Youth Council’s National Secretary, Abiodun Aderohunmu, confirmed in a statement that a ransom had been paid. However, the amount and whether other demands were met were not disclosed.
Aderohunmu expressed gratitude to all those who showed solidarity during the crisis, emphasizing the importance of security in Nigeria. “Prince Eniola Joseph Olajuni has been freed. He is currently receiving medical attention,” he said. Olajuni himself later confirmed his release in a brief video posted on social media, stating that he had been freed in Ibilo, Edo State.
Security Concerns and Public Reactions
Eniola Olajuni’s abduction and the circumstances surrounding his release have reignited discussions on Nigeria’s worsening security situation. Many Nigerians, particularly within the Afenifere Youth Council, have called for increased efforts to curb the rising cases of kidnappings and insecurity across the country.
The abduction of such a prominent youth leader underscores the growing risks faced by both influential figures and ordinary citizens. Analysts have noted that kidnappings for ransom have become an alarming trend, often exposing gaps in the nation’s security architecture. Civil society groups and political leaders continue to demand comprehensive reforms in tackling violent crime.
Government Response and Calls for Action
In response to the incident, security experts and political stakeholders have urged the government to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve law enforcement coordination. The Inspector General of Police has vowed to intensify crackdowns on criminal gangs involved in kidnappings, with renewed commitments to safeguarding lives and property.
Meanwhile, Afenifere leaders have reiterated their call for a proactive approach in addressing security threats. They have urged state and federal governments to enhance community policing and adopt measures that would prevent such incidents in the future.
While Eniola Olajuni’s safe return brings relief, his ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges Nigeria faces. The need for long-term strategies to combat the scourge of kidnappings remains more urgent than ever.
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