Arewa group seeks immediate rescue of Afenifere Youth Council president
By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo
The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) said the alarming situation surrounding the abduction of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, the President of the Afenifere Youth Council, called for urgent attention, demanding for Joseph Ojajuni’s immediate release by the kidnappers.
In a statement by it’s President General Yerima Shettima ,AYCF said that since the abduction on Monday, February 17, 2025, of the Afenifere Youth President, he has remained in captivity since then, a situation he described as worrisome.
According to Shettima, more worrisome is the fact that the kidnappers are demanding an exorbitant ransom of ₦100 million, a situation he said is compounded by the kidnappers’ ultimatum, threatening to take his life if their demands are not met.
“The recent escalation in the kidnappers’ demands, which now includes the provision of two Keke NAPEP vehicles, alongside a menacing deadline set, underscores the urgent need for immediate action.
“The threat to execute Prince Ojajuni if these demands are not met is not just a reflection of the lawlessness that has gripped our nation, but also a stark reminder of the fragility of life in the face of greed and desperation.”
He said that Prince Ojajuni is not merely a name but a beacon of hope and a symbol of the aspirations of our youth, adding that his unwavering commitment to championing the cause of the Yoruba people has resonated deeply within our communities.
“His abduction represents not only a personal tragedy for his family and friends but also a grievous affront to the collective conscience of our race and the nation as a whole. It is a stark reminder of the challenges our society faces in safeguarding the lives and futures of our youth.”
“The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, representing the interests and voices of the northern youth, unequivocally condemns this act of violence and lawlessness. We recognize that the abduction of Prince Ojajuni is part of a larger crisis that has plagued our nation, where kidnappings for ransom have become an all-too-common occurrence.”
“This trend is not merely a regional issue; it is a national emergency that demands the immediate and concerted efforts of all levels of government.”
“In light of this dire situation, we call upon the Federal Government and all relevant state authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safe release of Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni”.
The Arewa youth leader said, “it is imperative that security agencies are mobilized to locate and rescue Prince Ojajuni without delay., stressing that the Federal Government must ensure that law enforcement are adequately equipped and empowered to address the rising tide of kidnapping and violence in our society.”
He urged the Federal Government to collaborate with state governments, local communities, and civil society organizations to create a robust framework for combating kidnapping and improving the overall security situation in the country.
“Engaging with community leaders, youth organizations, and other stakeholders is essential to understanding the root causes of this crisis. A dialogue that prioritizes the safety and aspirations of our youth will foster a more secure environment for all.
“The government must launch public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about safety measures and encourage community vigilance. Empowering citizens with knowledge is a crucial step in combating the menace of kidnapping.”
“We call for the immediate review and strengthening of existing laws regarding kidnapping and ransom. The legal framework must reflect the seriousness of these crimes and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable”.
“The AYCF stands in solidarity with the Afenifere Youth Council and all those advocating for the safe return of Prince Ojajuni while imploring all Nigerians to unite in this critical moment, transcending ethnic and regional divides to demand justice and security for our people.”
“Let us not allow fear and despair to dictate our future; instead, let us rise together as a nation, resolute in our commitment to justice, safety, and the well-being of our youth. Time is of the essence. We call upon everyone to act swiftly and decisively. The life of Prince Ojajuni hangs in the balance, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure his safe return,” the statement concluded.
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