The All Progressives Congress (APC) has been plunged into mourning following the confirmed death of its Director of Administration, Dr. Abdulraif Adekunle Adeniji, who was tragically killed by kidnappers despite a ransom of about N90 million being paid.
Dr. Adeniji was abducted on January 26, 2025, during a visit to his brother’s residence in the Chikakore area of Kubwa, situated within the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The abduction occurred in the presence of his brother and wife.
According to reports, his wife was shot and killed on the spot by the kidnappers, who accused her of delaying their movement.
The chilling incident sent shockwaves through the APC community, with many struggling to come to terms with the loss.
Adeniji’s death was confirmed on Thursday, April 10, after weeks of desperate efforts by his family and well-wishers to secure his release.
Although the sum of N90 million was paid to the kidnappers, it has been alleged that Dr. Adeniji was murdered after the payment.
The Guardian Newspapers reported that the abductors collected the ransom but still proceeded to take his life, a development that has raised major concerns about rising insecurity.
In response to the tragedy, the National Secretariat of the APC has been temporarily shut down. A statement issued by Ubagha Abel, the Deputy Director of Administration, confirmed the closure, noting it was approved by the National Secretary of the party.
“The National Secretary has approved the closure of the National Secretariat from all party/work activities with immediate effect till Monday, April 14, 2025,” the statement read.
Furthermore, Abel encouraged staff and party members to take the period for personal reflection and prayer for the family of the deceased.
He added, “You are advised to use the mourning period for sober reflection and prayers for the family and loved ones. May the soul of our beloved Director rest in peace, Amen.”
In a sign of respect, the party ordered that all flags at its Secretariat be flown at half-mast throughout the mourning period.
Meanwhile, party members, family friends, and staff have continued to pour out their condolences, describing the late Dr. Adeniji as a dedicated and peace-loving man whose contribution to the growth of the APC could not be overstated.
This tragic incident has once again highlighted the growing issue of insecurity in Nigeria, where cases of abduction for ransom have been on the rise.
Citizens have been left shaken, and many are calling for urgent reforms and stronger security measures to curb the menace of kidnapping in the nation.
Although the circumstances surrounding Dr. Adeniji’s abduction were horrifying, his death after ransom payment adds to the list of unresolved cases, prompting questions about government efficiency in handling such crises.
As of now, investigations are still ongoing, and the authorities have not released any updates regarding arrests or leads on the identities of the kidnappers.
