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The tragic death of Retired Major Joe Ajayi has sparked widespread outrage in Kogi State and beyond, after it was revealed that he died in captivity despite a N10 million ransom paid for his release.

Ajayi, aged 80, was abducted from his home in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, on May 21 at around 11:30 pm.

Despite efforts by his family to meet the demands of the kidnappers, the retired officer did not survive.

Initially, the abductors demanded N50 million for his release.

But due to the family’s inability to meet the demand, negotiations dragged on while Ajayi’s health deteriorated.

Sources say the retired major, who required regular medication, was denied access to his treatment.

In a disturbing twist, the kidnappers reportedly told the family that sending medications would require an additional payment, a demand the family could not meet.

Eventually, when the abductors realized that Ajayi’s condition had worsened, they lowered the ransom to N10 million.

A community source said, “Once the ransom was paid, the kidnappers directed the family to where they would find him, only for them to meet his (Ajayi) lifeless body.”

The retired officer’s body was later deposited at the Kabba Specialist Hospital mortuary.

The incident has triggered a wave of grief and anger, particularly in the Bunu community, which has been grappling with frequent cases of insecurity.

The Bunu Leaders Forum condemned the incident in a strongly worded statement, saying the nation had failed a man who had served it faithfully in war and peace.

“It is with a broken heart and a heavy spirit that the Bunu Leaders Forum and the entire Bunu District, expressed deepest condolences to the family, community, military colleagues (that also joined to work round the challenge), friends and well-wishers of our revered elder, Major Joe Ajayi (retd), whose life was wickedly and unjustly cut short in the most horrific and inhumane manner,” the statement read.

Signed by Prof. Olu Obafemi and Dr. Ade Abanida, chairman and secretary of the Forum respectively, the statement described Ajayi as more than just a soldier.

“Major Ajayi was not just a retired officer of the Nigerian Army, he was a gallant war veteran who fought bravely to keep Nigeria united during the civil war.”

“After his military service, he answered a higher call as a servant of God, pastoring, mentoring, building lives, and offering comfort to many across our land.”

The forum praised his enduring legacy in Bunu land, calling him “a pillar of wisdom and stability” and “an unwavering voice of integrity and peace.”

“He was a staunch believer and strong member of the BDA, and of the Advisory Committee of the Bunu Leaders Forum.”

“He lived for service, and he died in painful betrayal by a nation that failed to protect one of her finest sons,” the Forum added.

Meanwhile, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, while addressing worshippers during Eid prayers in Okene, urged calm and assured residents that the state government is making progress in its efforts to tackle insecurity.

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