Ex-Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Adigun Agbaje who was abducted Friday evening and released by kidnappers on Sunday has expressed his gratitude to Nigerians for their prayer and support toward his freedom
In a statement issued by Agbaje’s son, Adewale, the University don, though still under the eyes of his doctors recounts how he was abducted.
Apart from the fact that he was released, he has also shown empathy towards other victims who are still in captive and hopes for their release.
The statement reads in part:
“A personal note of appreciation from Prof. Adigun Agbaje
My father, Prof. Adigun Agbaje, recently released by kidnappers, has asked me to issue the statement below on his behalf.
“It’s a new day today and I’m happy to be alive. I was released by my kidnappers yesterday evening after spending two nights in the thick forests of Ogun and Oyo states. My mind goes to the five others who have still left with the kidnappers: two young ladies, two young men, and a middle-aged person. I was shot in the head during the abduction process.
I thank God that the bullet that went through my car’s windscreen left only a skin-deep wound on my head even though it left a gaping hole in the cap I was wearing. I did not even know about this till Saturday morning when I saw caked blood on my cap.
I am undergoing comprehensive health checks and so it may take some time to thank all my family, including my in-laws, friends, and in-laws to my children, friends, colleagues, and all Nigerians.
For now, I want to thank the following former and current Vice Chancellors of the University of Ibadan: Prof Olufemi Bamiro, Prof Isaac Adewole, Prof Idowu Olayinka, and Prof Kayode Adebowale, my colleagues at the University of Ibadan and other Universities at home and abroad, current and former students, including Mr. Fisayo Soyombo, for their wonderful support and generosity to my family, top government, military, and other security officials.
I am quite grateful for all your efforts. You all kept hope alive and ensured that the sensitive negotiations came to a successful end when I regained freedom yesterday evening. As stated earlier, my heart goes to those young female undergraduates, the young men, and the middle-aged person I left behind with the kidnappers.
I may not be reachable now but as soon as I get medical clearance from my doctors, I will be thanking all of you personally.”
Adewale Agbaje
31st October 2022
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