Tension has gripped Ifon town in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State following the abduction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ward 5 Chairman, Mr. Nelson Adepoyigi, by unknown gunmen.
Adepoyigi was reportedly kidnapped on his way to a meeting in the early hours of Monday. The assailants ambushed his vehicle, overpowered him, and whisked him away to an undisclosed location. Hours later, his abductors reached out to his family, demanding a ransom of one hundred million naira for his release.
The brazen attack has sparked fear and anger among party stakeholders and residents of Ifon, who described the incident as a threat to peace and political stability in the area. Community leaders and political allies have called on security agencies to act swiftly and ensure the immediate rescue of the kidnapped party official.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command stated that a joint team of security operatives, including the police, Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes, had been mobilized and were actively combing the surrounding forests and suspected hideouts.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure the safe return of Mr. Adepoyigi. Our officers are working closely with other security outfits and community intelligence networks to track the perpetrators and secure his freedom,” a police spokesperson said.
This latest abduction adds to the growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Ondo State, especially in Ose LGA, which has witnessed a series of violent attacks in recent years.
As the search continues, residents have been urged to remain calm and vigilant, while the state government is yet to issue an official statement on the matter.