NB247
The Ondo State Security Network, as Amotekun, has confirmed the kidnap of an Anglican Bishop, Rev. Canon Olowolagba, his wife and two children.
Canon Olowolagba attached to the Akoko Diocese of the Anglican Church was reportedly kidnapped on Saturday at Iboropa Road. while traveling from Ipesi.
It was gathered that the kidnappers have contacted his relatives and members of the Anglican Church, demanding a ransom of N75million.
He was reportedly abducted along with his wife, Mrs Olowolagba, and their 16-year-old daughter, Goodness Olowolagba, a 100-level student of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba- Akoko (AAUA), who came for a holiday at home, as well as a nine-year-old girl staying with them, identified as Idowu.
The abduction of cleric has sent shockwaves through the community in the Akoko North-East council area of Ondo State.
The Bishop of Akoko Anglican Diocese, Babajide Bada, while confirming the development, said that the family was traveling from Ipesi through Isua Akoko when they were abducted.
The clergyman confirmed that the kidnappers initially demanded N75 million but later reduced it to N10 million and then N15 million.
Bada stated that the matter has been reported to the state security outfit, Amotekun, and other relevant authorities.
“Amotekun is working tirelessly to secure the release of the victims. We have also notified the hunters and reported the matter to the police in Ikare and Isua,” said Mr Bada.
The Chairman of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Akoko Northwest Local Government, Basiru Aminu, has called on religious leaders and the community to pray for the safe release of the victims.
The state Amotekun commander, Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed the abduction and assured that the corps is working with other security agencies to secure the release of the victims.
The Ondo State Police Command, however, claimed that the matter was not reported to any police station.
Police Spokesperson, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya said she would not confirm the development since no report had been made to the police.