By THE harrowing ordeal surrounding the abduction of Pa Dada James Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okoloke in Yagba West, has, once again, exposed the fragile nexus between traditional authority, security, and political accountability in Nigeria’s North-Central region. Despite initial reports that the ransom demand had been reduced to ₦12 million, the monarch’s family has clarified that his captors are now insisting on ₦50 million — rejecting the ₦25 million painstakingly raised, partly through the sale of family properties.
This evolving crisis lays bare a troubling lack of political will, especially from elected representatives of Kogi West Senatorial District. The family’s pointed accusation that lawmakers and influential figures have gone silent — even to the extent of blocking calls — speaks volumes about the deepening disconnect between the political elite and the grassroots, including revered traditional institutions.
The urgency is compounded by the monarch’s deteriorating health, a concern that highlights the humanitarian dimension of the saga. As the family calls for broader intervention from Nigerians and security agencies, the incident reinforces an uncomfortable reality: the erosion of traditional authority’s protection, even in its own domain.
What should have prompted swift, collective mobilisation has, instead, become a symbol of systemic indifference. If prominent citizens and traditional rulers can be left so vulnerable, what hope exists for ordinary Nigerians?
Until there is visible and sustained action from government and security institutions, this case will remain yet another blot on the country’s already strained record on insecurity and leadership responsibility.
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