“Our Lives Are In Danger” – Olusesi Sofoluwe, Twice Kidnapped, Cries Out After Losing All To Ransom Payments

Olusesi Sofoluwe Adekunle, a Nigerian businessman and father of two, has recounted his horrifying experience of being kidnapped twice within a span of twelve months, leaving his family in financial ruin and living in constant fear.

The first abduction occurred on November 10, 2023, while Sofoluwe was returning from his family farm. He was held for nine grueling days during which he was tortured by his captors, who demanded a ransom of Twenty Million Naira (N20,000,000). Despite reporting the incident to the police, the kidnappers remained untraceable, forcing his wife, Anuoluwapo Esther Olusesi-Sofoluwe, to sell off their valuables to meet the ransom demand.

“They sprinkled acid on the back of my right leg as a warning. My life was in danger every single day I spent in their custody,” Sofoluwe recounted.

Barely three months later, on January 28, 2024, Sofoluwe faced a second nightmare when he was abducted again—this time from his residence at No. 23 Akinrimisa Street, Ojoo, Ibadan, in the presence of his wife and children. He was held for seven days while the kidnappers issued threats to target his children next. A ransom of Thirty Million Naira (N30,000,000) was paid before his release.

“The kidnappers told me they are coming for my kids next. I don’t want them to suffer the pain and trauma I endured,” Sofoluwe said, his voice filled with emotion.

The family has since lost all their properties, including their farm, to pay the ransom. Despite reporting both incidents to the police, no leads have been found, leaving the Sofoluwe family in a state of fear and vulnerability.

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“We are living in constant fear, knowing they could strike again. We’ve lost everything, and now our lives are at risk,” said Anuoluwapo, who has been the backbone of the family throughout these ordeals.

The Sofoluwe family is calling on law enforcement agencies and the government to intensify efforts to combat kidnapping and bring their abductors to justice. They also seek community support and protection to ensure the safety of their children.

“I am appealing to the government, human rights organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene. We need justice and protection,” Sofoluwe pleaded.

The family’s ordeal highlights the growing insecurity in Nigeria and the devastating impact of kidnapping on victims and their families.