ADAKOLE VISITS KIDNAP VICTIM IN HOSPITAL
The Executive Director of Adakole Initiatives for Peace in Agatu, Chief Adakole Sale James, paid a compassionate visit to Mr Antenyi Vincent, a victim of a recent kidnapping incident along the Otukpo axis.
Mr. Antenyi, a native of Ogwule in the Agatu Local Government Area, was abducted by unknown gunmen while traveling home from Otukpo on April 4, 2025.
He sustained machete wounds during the attack but was fortunately rescued by the security personnel along with 14 other victims of the Benue Links kidnapping in the Otukpo area.
Chief Adakole, who is well-known for his peace advocacy expressed deep sadness upon learning about the incident through social media during his hospital visit yesterday, “I reached out to your brother and promised to visit you during this Easter period,” he said.
“It’s a blessing that you’re alive; many others lost their lives in this tragic incident, which they did not deserve. Let’s thank God for sparing your life.”
Emphasizing the importance of unity, Chief Adakole stated, “If we’re not safe outside, we must come together to ensure Agatu is a safer place for our people, as there’s no place like home.”
He shared a poignant story about an Egba man who moved to Otukpo due to the Ologba-Egba crisis, only to become a victim of kidnapping. His family paid a substantial ransom for his release.
“The tragedy could have been avoided if peace had prevailed,” he lamented.
Chief Adakole, who consistently takes every opportunity to promote peace and unity, urged the people of Agatu to learn from this example and work together to make their local government a better and more peaceful place.
As a well-known humanitarian, he also contributed to assisting Mr Antenyi’s hospital expenses and acknowledged the efforts of security personnel during the recent kidnapping incident.
In response, Mr. Antenyi expressed his gratitude to Chief Adakole for visiting him during this difficult time.
He highlighted the need for a sensitization program aimed at educating the youth to promote positive change and foster peace in Agatu.
He prayed that God would bless Chief Adakole abundantly and help him continue assisting the people of Agatu.
Adakole Media Unit
April 24, 2025