The family of Pa. Dada James Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okoloke community in Kogi State, is crying out to public-spirited individuals and corporate organizations for help to secure his release after being kidnapped from his palace by 2am last Thursday.
The kidnappers demanded a ransom of N50 million, having initially asked for N100 million, while the family has managed to raise N25 million so far.
“We value him so much,” the family said. “We are praying that God will give the security agencies upper hand in their work to rescue all victims in captivity.”
The family expressed frustration that some politicians who were their friends had abandoned them, with some even blocking their lines.
The family is calling on Senator Dino Melaye, Senator Sunday Karimi, Hon Leke Abejide, Hon Faleke, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Oduagham, and other politicians from the state and local government chairmen to help raise the fund.
“We are also appealing to the security agencies to intensify their efforts to rescue the old man alive and unhurt,” the family pleaded.
The health of the traditional ruler is reportedly deteriorating, and the family is worried.
The palace has denied reports that the ransom has been reduced to N12 million, insisting that the kidnappers are still demanding N50 million.
The family is urging pastors and Imams to continue praying for God’s intervention in the situation.