The family of Okasime Olowojoba, the Ward I Chairman of the Labour Party (LP) in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, remains in deep distress as he has yet to be released one month after his abduction. The incident has also left the residents of Igarra, his hometown, in shock and fear.
Olowojoba was abducted on Friday, April 26, 2025, while traveling with his wife, children, and housemaid from Auchi to Igarra. The kidnapping occurred at a notorious bad spot near Sasaro, along the Auchi-Igarra-Ibillo road. He had reportedly gone to Auchi to bring his family home in preparation for his children’s return to school the following Monday.
Narrating the ordeal, Olowojoba’s younger brother, Omozame Olowojoba, told journalists during a phone interview that the situation has become increasingly alarming. He said that despite the family raising and paying over N5 million as ransom, there has been no word from the kidnappers for over a week.
“Today marks the eighth day since we last heard from them. They called after we paid N5.3 million on a Tuesday, saying the money was only meant for feeding. The next day, Wednesday, they demanded an additional N30 million. Then on Thursday, they asked for another N5 million. Since then, we haven’t heard anything from them. The last time I spoke to my brother was the day before we paid the N5.3 million,” he explained.
The family, now emotionally and financially strained, is calling on the Edo State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure Olowojoba’s release. They are also pleading with the abductors to have mercy and free him, emphasizing that he is a young man striving to provide for his family.
“Our hearts are heavy, especially his wife and children. We are begging the government and security forces to intervene. We also appeal to the kidnappers to let him go. He is not a wealthy man, just someone trying to support his loved ones,” Omozame added.
The prolonged silence from the abductors and the uncertainty surrounding Olowojoba’s safety continue to heighten fears and tension within the community.
