Retired Army Major found dead after alleged N10m ransom payment in Kogi

By Idowu Adebomi, Ado Ekiti

Tragedy has struck Odo Ape in Bunu District, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, following the discovery of the lifeless body of retired Army Major Joe Ajayi, weeks after he was abducted from his residence.

Despite reports that his family allegedly paid a ransom of ₦10 million, the 76-year-old elder statesman—who once served as Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kogi State—was reportedly denied medical attention while in captivity.

The abductors, after collecting the ransom, reportedly directed the family to the location where his corpse was dumped.

This grim discovery has sent shockwaves through Okunland and beyond, fuelling public outrage and renewed calls for urgent government intervention over the escalating insecurity across rural communities.

Speaking on the development, community youth leader Olayinka Samuel condemned the barbaric killing and demanded justice.

“While I acknowledge the ongoing efforts, I strongly urge the Kogi State Government to intensify its commitment to protecting lives. Our people deserve to feel safe, and rural communities must no longer be left at the mercy of criminals,” he stated.

Residents continue to mourn the loss of Major Ajayi, a respected figure in the community, as pressure mounts on authorities to apprehend the perpetrators and restore confidence in the state’s security architecture.

ReplyReply allForwardAdd reaction