A logistics manager working with the Girl Child First Foundation, Mr. Sam Apkidi, has regained his freedom after surviving a traumatic kidnapping ordeal that lasted several weeks.
According to information contained in a report made available to the press, the incident occurred on February 4, 2025, when Sam and his brothers were travelling along Market Road in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State. The group had reportedly been staying in the area since an earlier security incident that occurred on December 24, 2023 in Bokkos.
During the journey, Sam was allegedly ambushed and kidnapped by armed men believed to be of Fulani origin. He was reportedly taken to a nearby village while blindfolded and later moved into a forest believed to serve as a hideout for kidnappers.
While in captivity, the abductors reportedly demanded that Sam produce his employer, Mr. Oluwasanmi Pius Olukanni, the convener and director of the Girl Child First Foundation,whom according to them has been on their wanted list ever since his escape and they vowed to deal with him and his family ruthlessly no matter how long it takes them to locate him .The kidnappers allegedly threatened to kill him or sell his organs if their demands were not met.
Mr Sam later recounted that he was subjected to severe torture and harsh treatment during the early days of his captivity. For about seven days, he was reportedly tied up and given only small portions of rice and river water to survive. Despite repeated questioning, he maintained that he did not know the whereabouts of his employer.
After about two weeks in captivity, and realising he knew nothing about his disappearance the kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦70 million for his release. Following negotiations, the ransom was eventually reduced to ₦20 million, which was raised through the efforts of family members, friends, and supporters. The family reportedly sold land and other assets in order to secure his freedom.
In his account after regaining freedom, Sam described witnessing disturbing activities within the forest camp, including claims that people were killed and human body parts allegedly traded by criminal elements operating in the area. He stated that he believes only divine intervention enabled him to survive the ordeal.
The Girl Child First Foundation, where Sam works as logistics manager, is an initiative founded and led by Mr. Oluwasanmi Pius Olukanni as convener and director. The foundation focuses on advocacy against early girl-child marriage, particularly in parts of northern Nigeria. Through orientation programmes, symposiums, and community engagement, the foundation seeks to educate young girls and raise awareness about the dangers of early marriage while promoting empowerment and education.
Sources close to the case confirmed that police investigations are ongoing following Sam’s release by the abductors, as security agencies continue efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the kidnapping.
Community members and supporters of the foundation have expressed relief over Sam’s safe return while calling for stronger security measures in affected communities which has been a prevalent activities now in Plateau state.
Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
