Kidnapping and Insecurity Plague Kogi State Amid Tragic Death of Retired Army Officer

Strategic Insights -

Nigerian singer Jaywon has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of retired Army officer Major Joel Ajayi in Kabba-Bunu, Kogi State. Major Ajayi was abducted from his residence on May 21, 2025, after gunmen stormed his home and opened fire indiscriminately. Despite the payment of a ?10 million ransom, the officer was found dead, sparking outrage and calls for justice. The incident comes amid a rising wave of kidnappings in Kogi State, with the Oba of Okoloke still in captivity.

Key Takeaways:

  • Retired Army officer Major Joel Ajayi was abducted from his residence in Kabba-Bunu, Kogi State, on May 21, 2025, after gunmen stormed his home and opened fire.
  • A ?10 million ransom was paid for his release, but the officer was found dead, leading to widespread outrage and calls for justice.
  • The kidnapping is part of a rising wave of abductions in Kogi State, with the Oba of Okoloke still in captivity as of this report.
  • The government, led by Governor Usman Ododo, has assured residents of intensified efforts to tackle crime across the state, citing positive results in their efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
  • The late Major Ajayi was reportedly denied access to his medication during captivity, which severely impacted his health and ultimately led to his tragic death.

Statistics:

  • ?10 million ransom was paid for the release of Major Joel Ajayi.
  • The kidnappers initially demanded ?50 million for his release.
  • The Oba of Okoloke, Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, has been in captivity since earlier in May.
  • Kogi State has experienced a rising wave of kidnappings in recent months.
  • Governor Ododo has assured residents of intensified efforts to tackle crime across the state, citing positive results in their efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.

Sources:

  • LEADERSHIP
  • Jaywon's official Facebook page