In a chilling turn of events that underscores the deepening insecurity in Nigeria, a retired Nigerian Army Major and revered Christian cleric, Pastor Joe Ajayi, has been gruesomely murdered by kidnappers after a ₦10 million ransom was paid for his release.
The 76-year-old retired officer, who also served as the former Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kabba-Bunu chapter, was abducted from his residence in the tranquil community of Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State. The brazen abduction occurred amid sporadic gunfire that shattered the peace of the town, lasting over an hour and leaving residents terrified and helpless.
According to multiple sources, the assailants initially demanded a ransom of ₦50 million. However, after it became apparent that the elderly Major was in deteriorating health and without access to his vital medication, the kidnappers slashed their demand to ₦10 million — a sinister indication they were aware of his worsening condition.
Tragically, after the family managed to raise and deliver the reduced ransom, the kidnappers provided directions to where the retired military officer could supposedly be found. What awaited the grieving relatives was a nightmare: Major Ajayi’s lifeless body lay abandoned, a cruel betrayal that sent shockwaves through the entire community.
The remains of the respected cleric and military veteran have since been deposited at the Kabba Specialist Hospital mortuary, as loved ones, colleagues, and community members grapple with grief and outrage.
This harrowing incident has reignited public outcry over the worsening security situation in Okunland and across Kogi State. The Okun Development Association (ODA) has expressed deep concern over the increasing lawlessness and the government’s seeming inability to tackle the menace of kidnapping, which has now claimed one of the region’s most beloved sons.
When contacted, the Kogi State Police Command Public Relations Officer, William Aya, claimed ignorance of the incident, stating, “I am not aware of this development. However, I will find out about it.”
Major Joe Ajayi’s abduction and killing is yet another grim reminder of the growing impunity enjoyed by violent criminal elements. His brutal murder has left a void in both military and religious circles, sparking renewed calls for urgent action to restore security and justice in Nigeria’s heartland.
PIONEER NEWS 