‘I was shot in the head’ — ex-UI DVC narrates ordeal with abductors

Adigun Agbaje, a former deputy vice-chancellor (academics) of the University of Ibadan, says he was shot in the head by his abductors.

Agbaje was kidnapped alongside five others by gunmen along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway on Friday night.

He regained freedom from captivity on Sunday.

In an appreciation letter released by Adewale, his son, Agbaje said the bullet went through his car’s windscreen and left a skin-deep wound on his head.

“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,” the post reads.

“My mind goes to the five others who are 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, my own 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.”