The Anglican Bishop of Akoko Diocese, Rev. Canon Olowolagba, his wife, and their two daughters have regained freedom after being kidnapped along the Iboropa Road in the Akoko North-East area of Ondo State.
The family was released on Saturday after a ransom reportedly amounting to millions of naira was paid. Family sources revealed that contributions from relatives, the church, and other associations helped secure the funds.
The kidnappers initially demanded N75 million but later agreed to N15 million following negotiations with the family and church leaders.
The victims were abducted while traveling from Ipesi to Isua Akoko. According to the Bishop of Akoko Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev. Babajide Bada, the family disappeared on their way to Ikaram. Their absence was noticed the next morning when they failed to arrive at their destination or return home.
The abductees included the bishop, his wife, their university-aged daughter from Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, and a nine-year-old girl.
The incident was reported to security agencies, including the Ondo State security outfit, Amotekun. Chief Adetunji Adeleye, Amotekun’s commander, confirmed that operatives and local hunters had been working tirelessly to rescue the victims.
“We notified hunters and reported the matter to the police in Ikare and Isua. Amotekun operatives and hunters combed the bushes to ensure their rescue,” Rev. Bada said.
On Saturday, the victims were freed. Although details about the release process remain unclear, Chief Adetunji Adeleye confirmed the development.
“The pastor and his family have been released,” Adeleye told journalists, without disclosing where or how the release occurred.
