Kogi Kidnappers Detain Prophetess for 19 Days Despite ₦10 Million Ransom, Family Appeals for Help
The family of Prophetess Iyabo Yagba Asuajo, Secretary to the Chairman of Yagba East Local Government Area in Kogi State, has voiced concern over her extended captivity, 19 days after she was kidnapped by gunmen on the Egbe–Eruku Road.
Prophetess Asuajo and her husband, Prophet Michael, were kidnapped on October 25, 2025, while travelling along the notorious route, which has recorded repeated incidents of bandit attacks in recent months.
However, despite paying a ₦10 million ransom, the family says only the husband was released, while the Council Secretary remains in the kidnappers’ den.
Okun Media Hub, a local platform on Friday, said a distraught family member lamented the silence of local authorities and the slow pace of security intervention.
“My mother-in-law is still in their custody. She has not been released since October 25. The kidnappers collected ₦10 million and released only my father-in-law. The chairman has been silent, and we don’t know what else to do. Please help us,”the relative said.
The family described Prophetess Asuajo’s continued detention as emotionally devastating and called on the Kogi State Government, Yagba East Local Government authorities, and security agencies to urgently intervene before the situation worsens.
They urged Governor Usman Ododo, the Kogi State Police Command, and other relevant security formations to intensify rescue efforts and ensure that the Council Secretary is safely reunited with her loved ones.
Residents of Yagba East have also voiced concerns over the growing insecurity along the Egbe–Eruku axis, calling on the government to take decisive action to curb kidnappings and restore confidence in the area.
SaharaReporters previously reported that terrorists attacked a commercial bus and left one passenger dead and several others injured along the Ayere–Kabba road in the Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Sources told SaharaReporters on Monday that the incident occurred around 5pm on Sunday when gunmen opened fire on travellers along the busy route.
According to a witness, some vehicles managed to escape the ambush, but several passengers were hit by bullets.
“One person was confirmed dead at the general hospital, while others are receiving treatment for gunshot injuries,”the source said.
Residents say the Ayere–Kabba axis has become increasingly dangerous for travellers, with frequent attacks by armed gangs believed to be operating between Kogi and neighbouring Kwara State.