Fulani Herdsmen abduct Afenifere youth leader, Eniola Ojajuni, in Ondo State

March 08, 2025

By Adedoja Adesoji

The National Youth President of Afenifere, Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, has confirmed that he was kidnapped by Fulani herdsmen on February 17, 2025, while traveling to Abuja.

According to his post on Facebook, he recalled the incident happened around 2 pm in Akoko, Ondo State.

In a Facebook post on Friday, Ojajuni recounted his ordeal, stating that he is still receiving medical treatment following the incident.

“I was kidnapped by Fulani herdsmen on the 17th of February on my way to Abuja in Akunnu Akoko around 1:42 pm.

“I’m undergoing serious medical treatment, besides I want to use this opportunity to thank everyone who supported me massively financially, spiritually, and by calling my dear wife for words of encouragement. Once I’m out of the hospital bed, I’ll come out to appreciate you all specially,” Ojajuni said.

According to a top family source, Ojajuni’s release was secured with at least ₦17 million in ransom.

The money was paid to secure his freedom from the kidnappers after about 12 days.

Ojajuni’s wife reportedly personally delivered the ransom to the abductors in Akure before his release.

The source noted that despite repeated pleas, the Nigerian Government did not provide financial assistance, and security agencies were unable to track the kidnappers’ location until the ransom was paid.

“We did not hear anything from the government despite repeated promises, and the police efforts did not yield results. We had no choice but to raise funds ourselves,” the source said.

Ojajuni is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed location for security reasons. Prior to his release, the Afenifere group had condemned the deteriorating security situation and demanded urgent intervention from the Ondo and Kogi state governments.

The group had urged authorities to act swiftly to ensure Ojajuni’s safe rescue, noting that the abduction took place near the Ondo-Kogi state boundary. Ojajuni was kidnapped on Monday, February 17, 2025, while traveling to Abuja.

The Afenifere Youth Council’s National Secretary, Abiodun Aderonhunmu, disclosed that the kidnappers initially demanded a ₦100 million ransom.