Edo LP Chairman Still Held After N5.3m Ransom Payment
Despite paying a ransom of N5.3 million, the kidnappers holding Okasime Olowojoba—a ward leader of the Labour Party in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Edo State—have yet to release him.
Olowojoba was abducted on April 26, 2025, while returning to Igarra from a trip to Auchi with his wife, children, and housemaid.
His family managed to gather the ransom after the kidnappers initially demanded N50 million.
However, even after delivering the payment, the abductors have refused to set him free and have gone silent.
His younger brother, Omozame Olowojoba, told reporters that the last communication from the kidnappers came eight days ago.
“They accepted the N5.3 million on a Tuesday and called the next day to say that the money was only for feeding. Then they demanded another N30 million,” Omozame said.
“By Thursday, they requested an additional N5 million, which we couldn’t raise. Since then, there has been complete silence.”
Omozame added that he last spoke to his brother the day before the ransom was paid and has been unable to reach the kidnappers since.
He described the psychological strain the ordeal has placed on Olowojoba’s wife and children, who remain in deep distress.
The family is now appealing to the Edo State Government and security agencies for urgent intervention.
“We are pleading with the authorities to help us secure his release. He is a young man doing his best to support his family,” Omozame said.
The local Labour Party chapter and residents of Igarra have also expressed growing concern over the situation, urging swift and decisive action to ensure Olowojoba’s safe return.
Edo LP Chairman Still Held After N5.3m Ransom Payment