After 12 days of lethal torture in kidnappers’ den, monarch dies

After 12 days of lethal torture in kidnappers’ den, a traditional ruler in Kogi State, has finally succumbed.

The monarch of Aghara in Kabba-Bunu council area, Chief David Obadofin, died in the custody of his abductors last Thursday while they were still negotiating ransom for his release and another abductee.

Two days after he was kidnapped, when he could no longer withstand the torture, he gave up the ghost, a palace source said.

According to him, when the abductors noticed that Pa. Obadofin was becoming too weak, they agreed to collect N2 million for release of the two victims and started mounting pressure for the payment.

Meanwhile, Temidayo Elewa, his co-abductee has been released by the kidnappers.

She was picked up at Obajana, the cement town in Lokoja area and taken to the hospital for medical attention.

The gunmen set Temidayo free on sighting a search group made up of hunters, vigilantes and some Fulani volunteers.

“We have seen the lady and taken her to hospital. We picked her up in a village behind Obajana. As for Baba, we know he is dead but we are still combing the jungle for his remains.

“We will not let go because we are confident that God will guide our efforts to the root of this disaster. We will not let go or give up…” a source involved in the operations said.

Persecondnews recalls that Obadofin, a big-time Cashew farmer and Temidayo were abducted on Easter Monday from his farm residence in Aghara at about 11.00pm.

The gunmen shot madam Toyin Onare, a widow who was on the farm as a labourer.

Toyin was rushed to hospital in Kabba, headquarter of the LGA, about 35 minutes drive away. Unfortunately, she was confirmed dead on arrival.

Gunmen have been on the prowl in the area. In November, another widow narrowly survived a rape attempt in Takete Ide, when a herder attacked her on her way from farm.

The gunmen have also been on rampage in parts of Kogi East of the state.

On April 9, 2023 not less than eight people were killed and 40 houses razed by gunmen in Oganenigu in Dekina council area.