The family of Rev. Canon Olowolagba, an Anglican priest from Ikaram-Akoko, is currently in distress after being abducted by kidnappers along the Ise Akoko-Iboropa road in Ondo State on Sunday evening. The abductors have demanded a ransom of N75 million for the release of Rev. Olowolagba, his wife, and their two children.
According to Rev. Babajide Bada, the Bishop of Akoko Anglican Diocese, the incident occurred between 4:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Sunday when Rev. Olowolagba was traveling from Ipesi with his wife, Mrs. Olowolagba, their 16-year-old daughter, Goodness Olowolagba, a student at Adekunle Ajasin University, and a 9-year-old girl named Idowu, who is staying with the family.
Bishop Bada explained that the family was traveling through Isua Akoko when they were kidnapped. The family members became concerned when the victims failed to arrive at their destination in Ikaram, prompting them to report the incident. The kidnappers soon contacted the family, initially demanding a ransom of N75 million, which was later reduced to N10 million. However, the kidnappers reportedly changed their demand again to N15 million after the family raised some funds to secure their release.
Local security forces have been mobilized to assist in the rescue operation. Amotekun, the state’s security outfit, has been working in collaboration with local hunters and the police to locate and free the victims from their captors. Amotekun’s Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed that their forces, along with other security agencies, are intensifying efforts to ensure the victims’ safe return.
Though the police spokesperson, SP Funmilayo Odunlami-Omilani, stated that no formal report had been made, the community and local groups have rallied to raise funds to assist with the ransom. The Ẹgbẹ Akọ́mọlédè, a group in Ondo State, has called on its members to contribute towards the N10 million ransom.
The ongoing efforts by Amotekun, hunters, and the police offer hope that the priest and his family will be safely rescued. However, the community remains on edge as the situation unfolds.
