In a shocking development, an Anglican pastor, his wife, and child have been kidnapped in Ondo State. The incident occurred on the Ise Akoko-Iboropa road in the Akoko North-East Local Government Area, causing panic and concern in the region. The family was taken by gunmen, believed to be kidnappers, on Sunday evening between 4:00 pm and 5:30 pm.
“The man involved is Reverend Olowolagba. He was travelling from Ipesi with his wife, Mrs Olowolagba, and their 16-year-old daughter, Goodness Olowolagba, a 100-level student of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), who came for a holiday at home, and a nine-year-old girl staying with them, identified as Idowu.
“They drove from Ipesi through Isua Akoko. And when they got to between Isua and Ise-Akoko, they were kidnapped. And we did not know, until the following morning when their members discovered that they didn’t get to Ikaram, where they were going. And they were not also at home.
“Since then, those who kidnapped them have been calling. They called to ask for a N75 million ransom. And we said that’s very unreasonable.
The kidnapping of Rev. Canon Olowolagba, his wife, and child has sent shockwaves through the community of Ikaram-Akoko, the pastor’s hometown. Residents have been gathering to pray for their safe release as fear and uncertainty spread throughout the area.
The Bishop of Akoko Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev. Babajide Bada, shared the news of the abduction, revealing that the kidnappers have demanded a staggering N75 million ransom for the family’s freedom. The ransom demand has left many in the community deeply concerned about the safety of the victims and the impact of such criminal activity on the area.
“Presently, Amotekun and the hunters are combing the bush to ensure the victims are rescued from their abductors.”
Despite the seriousness of the situation, local authorities have yet to release a detailed update. The police spokesperson for the state, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omilani, mentioned that she had not been fully briefed on the case. However, the Commander of the State Security Network, Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed that the kidnapping occurred last week and that security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps, have been working together to ensure the safe return of the victims.
This incident highlights the growing concern over kidnapping for ransom in Nigeria, especially in rural areas, where security can be harder to maintain. As authorities continue to work on securing the release of the pastor and his family, the local community remains hopeful and united in their prayers for their safe return.
