Ondo Monarch's Abductors Demand N5m

Faceless kidnappers who recently ferried away a traditional ruler in the Sunshine State of Ondo have contacted his family members with a financial demand.

 

Oba Joel Daodu

 

Abductors of the Oniyani of Iyani-Akoko in Ondo State, Oba Joel Daodu, have reduced the ransom for his release from N15 million to N5 million, family sources said yesterday.

 

The monarch was seized on Saturday evening near Oba-Akoko, on the Owo-Ikare Road. Residents of Iyani-Akoko have been praying God to intercede for prompt release of the monarch.

 

It was alleged that Oba Daodu was abducted with one of his prominent chiefs, John Afelumo. Their whereabouts were still unknown last night.

 

Reactions have trailed the abduction of the royal father and his chief.

 

A prominent traditional ruler and the Akala of Ikaram -Akoko, Oba Andrew Momodu, said it was an abomination to abduct a monarch.

 

He said monarchs were the custodians of traditions and representatives of the Creator of the universe. The traditional father said such beings should not be ridiculed.

 

Oba Momodu urged government to recruit more policemen to protect lives and property. He urged Oba Daodu’s abductors to release him with his chief without any condition.

 

The Olisupare of Supare-Akoko, Oba Adejoro Omosogbon, also called for military deployment to Owo-Ikare Road. He said the area had become a haven for kidnappers and other persons with devilish activities.