The family of Pa. Dada James Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okoloke community in Yagba West local government area of Kogi State, has made an urgent appeal for public assistance to raise the N50 million ransom demanded by kidnappers holding the first-class traditional ruler captive.

According to family sources, the monarch was forcefully taken from his palace around 2 am last Thursday by armed abductors who whisked him away to an unknown location. The kidnappers initially demanded N100 million but have remained firm on their current demand of N50 million despite the family's efforts.

A family spokesperson clarified that contrary to some media reports, the ransom has not been reduced to N12 million. "As of Sunday, family members have raised the sum of N25 million, but the kidnappers are insisting on N50 million," the source revealed.

The family expressed disappointment that some politicians who were previously considered friends have abandoned them during this crisis, with some allegedly blocking their phone numbers. There is growing concern about the deteriorating health condition of the elderly traditional ruler while in captivity.

In their desperate appeal, the family called on prominent Kogi politicians including Senator Dino Melaye, Senator Sunday Karimi, Hon. Leke Abejide, Hon. Faleke, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Oduagham, and local government chairmen to assist in raising the remaining funds needed to secure the monarch's release.

The family has also requested prayers from religious leaders across faiths while appealing to security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the traditional ruler "alive and unhurt."

"We value him so much. We are praying that God will give the security agencies upper hand in their work to rescue all victims in captivity," the family spokesperson said.

This abduction comes amid growing concerns about the security situation in Kogi State, with recent reports of other violent incidents including the killing of three vigilantes in a community attack days after the traditional ruler's kidnapping.

Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement regarding their efforts to rescue the monarch as the family continues their desperate plea for financial assistance.