Gunmen Attack Politician While Parking His Car
Fear gripped residents of Ifon town in Ondo State as gunmen abducted an APC ward chairman on Monday night.
The victim, identified as Nelson Adepoyigi, was taken away by his assailants at about 10 p.m. near his residence.
He was reportedly ambushed while parking his vehicle after returning home from a political meeting.
Sources say the attackers beat him with sticks before bundling him into a waiting vehicle and disappearing into the night.
Adepoyigi, the APC chairman of a ward in Ose Local Government, was said to have cried out for help.
His wife, who heard his screams, rushed outside only to realise he had already been kidnapped.
Neighbours were left in shock as the incident happened in a quiet part of town.
The kidnappers later contacted the family and demanded a ransom of ₦100 million for his release.
Ransom Negotiation Underway
A family source confirmed that communication has been established between the abductors and the victim’s relatives.
“Yes, the gunmen have called the family and asked for ₦100 million to release him,” the source revealed.
However, the family is currently negotiating for a reduction in the ransom.
“We pleaded with them to consider a lower amount. The discussion is still ongoing,” another source said.
The abduction has triggered panic within the political circle of Ondo State, especially among members of the APC.
Many politicians have called for increased security measures across the state, especially in Ose LGA.
Concerned residents described the situation as frightening, urging the government to tackle the growing insecurity.
Party leaders say they are working with security agencies to secure the release of Adepoyigi.
Police Confirm Incident, Begin Investigation
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of the ward chairman.
Spokesperson of the command, SP Ayanlade Olayinka, said police are already on the trail of the kidnappers.
“I can confirm to you that the chairman of APC Ward 5 was kidnapped,” he told journalists on Tuesday.
He added that the victim was abducted at the entrance of his farm along the Ifon-Owo road.
The police said tactical units have been deployed to track and rescue the politician alive and unhurt.
Meanwhile, the APC in Ondo State has condemned the incident and called for swift intervention by security forces.
Community leaders have also urged the state government to strengthen local vigilance and surveillance systems.
As at the time of filing this report, Adepoyigi remains in captivity while negotiations continue with his captors.