LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Chief David Obadofin, traditional ruler of Aghara, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, Kogi State, has died in custody of his abductors.
He passed away on 20 April, 12 days after he was kidnapped, when he could no longer withstand the torture of the abductors.
Temidayo Elewa who was also abducted was however set free.
Elewa was reportedly picked up in Obajana, the cement town in Lokoja LGA, on 22 April, by family members, who took her straight for medical attention at an undisclosed hospital.
A source involved in the negotiation for their release, confirmed the development adding that when the abductors noticed the monarch was becoming too weak, they reduced the ransomed from N60 million to N2 million to release the two victims and started mounting pressure for the payment.
“Meanwhile, they blindfolded Temidayo and took her to a different location.
“Unfortunately, the monarch died before ransom could be delivered.”
The source also said that when the kidnappers realized that the advance search group, made up of hunters, vigilantes and some Fulani volunteers were closing on them, the gunmen set Temidayo free.
“She roamed the jungle alone from that Thursday to Friday. After many hours she met a sawing machine operator, who eventually led her to freedom.
“The lady (Temidayo) has been taken to the hospital. She was picked up in a village behind Obajana. As for Baba, we know he is dead but we are still combing the jungle for his remains.”
Obadofin, a major Cashew farmer and Temidayo were abducted on Easter Monday from his farm residence in Aghara at about 11pm.
The gunmen had reportedly shot dead one madam Toyin Onare, a widow, who was in the farm working 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.
