Outspoken former lawmaker, Senator Dino Melaye, has issued a fierce ultimatum to the Kogi State Government following the tragic deaths of three residents of Ayetoro-Kiri, who were among 37 worshippers abducted from an ECWA church on December 14, 2025.
A “Grave Failure” of Security
In a scathing Facebook post on Sunday, January 4, 2026, Melaye characterized the ongoing security crisis in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area as a “grave failure” of both state and federal authorities. He accused the government of abandoning the Okun people, whom he described as diligent taxpayers deserving of protection.
In a scathing Facebook post on Sunday, January 4, 2026, Melaye characterized the ongoing security crisis in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area as a “grave failure” of both state and federal authorities. He accused the government of abandoning the Okun people, whom he described as diligent taxpayers deserving of protection.
“The Kogi State Government must take responsibility,” Melaye wrote. “The death of three Ayetoro-Kiri indigenes will and should be taken seriously. There are no decisive and pragmatic approaches from state and federal governments.”
Threat of Unstoppable Protests
Melaye warned that the silence of the Okun people is not a sign of weakness. He threatened to mobilize a massive civilian movement if the government fails to secure the release of the remaining captives.
Melaye warned that the silence of the Okun people is not a sign of weakness. He threatened to mobilize a massive civilian movement if the government fails to secure the release of the remaining captives.
“We will organize the kind of protest that police cannot stop if the stealing and killing of our people continue,” he cautioned. “We want to see deliberate, organized, and working efforts to secure and recover our people.”
The Tragic Toll
The community’s spokesperson, David Ampitan, confirmed the deaths on Saturday, painting a grim picture of the December 14 abduction. Despite the payment of a ransom, only seven victims were released. Tragically, three of those released died shortly after reaching medical facilities, while four others remain in critical condition.
The community’s spokesperson, David Ampitan, confirmed the deaths on Saturday, painting a grim picture of the December 14 abduction. Despite the payment of a ransom, only seven victims were released. Tragically, three of those released died shortly after reaching medical facilities, while four others remain in critical condition.
As of today, approximately 30 people remain in the hands of the kidnappers, with their fate unknown. Ampitan further criticized the government for its lack of empathy, noting that previous peaceful protests by the community had been met with a lukewarm response from authorities.