***As Okoloke communities rejoices
By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi has ordered full medical rehabilitation and psychological restoration of Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okoloke who was released on Wednesday after 27 days in Kidnapper’s den..
A family who disclosed this to newsmen on Thursday in Lokoja said, “As I speak with you we are already heading to the Federal Medical Center, Lokoja on the order of the state Governor His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.
“The Governor has virtually taken over the rehabilitation of the traditional ruler, we are so grateful to the governor for his love and compassion”, the source said.
It would be recalled that the First Class traditional ruler of Okoloke Community, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi, was abducted from his palace at gun point on the 15th of May, 2025.
The family source revealed that after 27 days in their custody, the kidnappers released him adding that on the directive of the kidnappers, selected members of the family discovered him at a designated point in the bush.
He was quickly conveyed on a motorcycle and taken to the nearest road where a vehicle awaited him.
“He was immediately rushed to ECWA Hospital in Egbe as soon as we picked him up from the bush where he was dumped by his abductors after collecting the ransom.
The source further revealed that when the news of his release got to the State Government, Governor Ododo directed that the monarch be discharged from ECWA Hospital, Egbe and be brought to the Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja for proper medical attention.
The abduction of the monarch triggered widespread panic across the state, particularly in Yagba West Local Government Area, where incidents of kidnapping have become alarmingly frequent.
The people of Yagba West Local Government went spiritual seeking divine intervention and prompt release of the monarch in view of his age, the possible rigours and humiliating experience he might be passing through in the hands of the kidnappers.
The people expressed gratitude to God particularly for the monarch as l other victims abducted within the same period in Okunland were killed in cold blood, while many are still being held captives.
A 76 years old retired Nigerian Army Major, Pastor Joe Ajayi kidnapped few days after the monarch was not as lucky as he was found dead even after the payment of N10 million ransom.
The family of Oba James Dada Ogunyanda are full of gratitude over the directive of Gov Ododo for adequate medical rehabilitation and psychological restoration at the federal medical center Lokoja.
Meanwhile, jubilation erupted in the Okoloke community following the news of the release of their traditional ruler as crowed of jubilant members gathered in his palace to receive him.
Though the monarch did not eventually arrive his palace, members of the community spent the night rejoicing with his family and singing praises to God Almighty. (Ends)