Kidnapped APC Director Confirmed Dead, Party Shuts HQ in Mourning

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has closed its national headquarters in Abuja in mourning for its Director of Administration, Dr. Rauf Adekunle Adeniji, who was killed while in captivity after being abducted earlier this year.

Dr. Adeniji, who assumed the role in August 2024 following the resignation of Prof. Alaba Adediwura, was kidnapped on January 26 during a visit to his brother’s residence in Chikakore, a suburb of Kubwa in the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory. Armed men reportedly stormed the area, abducting Adeniji along with his brother, his brother’s wife, and their son. The following day, the body of his brother’s wife, Madam Esther, was found in the Ijah-Gbagyi community in Niger State.

Despite the kidnappers’ demand for a ransom of N350 million and reports suggesting that payment was made, sources close to the family confirmed that Dr. Adeniji was killed in captivity weeks ago. His brother, Michael Adesiyan, a Deputy Director at the National Assembly Commission, was among those later rescued and presented to the media by the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Family sources revealed that both killings occurred while the victims were still in the kidnappers’ camp. The released brother is currently in the care of government officials, reportedly undergoing counselling and rehabilitation.

As of Thursday, the FCT Police had not issued an official confirmation of the death. Police spokesperson Josephine Adeh stated she had not yet been briefed on the case.

The APC, in a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Barrister Felix Morka, announced the temporary closure of the national secretariat until Monday, April 14, in honour of Dr. Adeniji. A condolence register has also been opened at the party’s headquarters. The party expressed deep condolences to Dr. Adeniji’s family, colleagues, and the wider APC community, describing him as a man known for his warmth, positive spirit, and dedication to his work.