A retired Army Major, Joe Ajayi, has died in captivity despite his family paying a ₦10 million ransom to secure his release from kidnappers in Kogi State.
Ajayi was kidnapped from his residence in Odo-Ape community, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at approximately 11:30 pm. According to sources, armed men stormed his home, firing shots indiscriminately before abducting him to an unknown location.
Ransom Negotiations and Health Concerns
A source close to the family revealed that the kidnappers initially demanded ₦50 million for Ajayi's release. When the family expressed inability to raise such a substantial amount, the kidnappers eventually reduced their demand.
The situation was complicated by Ajayi's chronic health condition. The retired officer required regular medication, which the kidnappers refused to allow unless the family paid additional money.
"The kidnappers told the family they would only allow his drugs to be delivered to him at an additional cost, which the family could not afford," the source disclosed. "Eventually, when it became clear that he may not survive the ordeal, they reduced the ransom to ₦10 million."
Tragic Outcome
Believing Major Ajayi was still alive, his family hurriedly raised the ₦10 million ransom. After payment, the kidnappers directed family members to a location where they claimed the retired officer would be found.
Tragically, upon arrival at the designated spot, the family discovered only his corpse. The remains of Major Ajayi have since been deposited at the morgue of Kabba Specialist Hospital.
This incident adds to the growing concerns about insecurity in Kogi State and other parts of Nigeria, where kidnapping for ransom has become increasingly common.
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