Labour Party Leader Remains Captive Despite N5M Ransom Payment

 

The nightmare continues for the family of Okasime Olowojoba, a Labour Party ward leader in Akoko-Edo, Edo State, who was kidnapped on April 26, 2025. Despite their desperate efforts, including the payment of a N5 million ransom, Olowojoba remains in the hands of his captors, leaving his loved ones grappling with agonizing uncertainty.

He was abducted while returning to Igarra with his wife, children, and housemaid after a trip, and what began with an initial demand of N50 million has spiraled into a heartbreaking silence after a substantial sum was paid.

Olowojoba’s younger brother, Omozame Olowojoba, revealed the distressing details of their last communications with the abductors. "Today marks eight days since they last contacted us," he stated. He explained that after receiving N5.3 million on a Tuesday, the kidnappers shockingly demanded N30 million the very next day, claiming the initial payment was merely for "feeding." A subsequent demand for another N5 million followed, which the family could not meet, leading to the current, terrifying radio silence.

Omozame recounted the last time he heard his brother's voice, just before the family delivered the initial ransom. Since then, all attempts to re-establish contact have failed, intensifying the fear and emotional distress for Olowojoba’s wife and young children.

"We are all very worried," Omozame pleaded, his voice heavy with despair. "We are appealing to the state government and security agencies to help rescue our brother. We also appeal to his abductors to release him so he can reunite with his family. He is a young man struggling to take care of them.”

This ongoing ordeal resonates deeply within the Labour Party community and among residents of Igarra, who are collectively urging authorities to redouble their efforts to secure Olowojoba’s freedom. His case tragically underscores the prevalent and devastating impact of kidnapping on families and communities across the nation.