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Suspected Kidnappers Abduct APC Ward Chairman in Ondo State, Demand N100 Million Ransom
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted Hon. Nelson Adepoyigi, the chairman of Ward 5 of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ifon, located within Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local political community, occurred late in the evening on Monday, May 12, 2025.
According to eyewitness reports, Adepoyigi was in the process of parking his vehicle around 10 p.m. when the assailants stormed his compound. The gunmen, reportedly armed with sticks and other dangerous weapons, attacked the politician and forcefully dragged him away from the premises. His wife, who was inside the house at the time, rushed outside upon hearing her husband’s distress cries, only to discover that he had already been taken away by the armed men.
Further accounts suggest that the kidnappers wasted no time in making contact with the family of the abducted politician. They are said to have demanded a ransom of one hundred million naira (N100 million) as the condition for his release. The hefty demand has intensified concerns over the rise in kidnapping for ransom in the region, particularly targeting political figures and community leaders.
Confirming the abduction, the Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, SP Olushola Ayanlade, stated that Hon. Adepoyigi was kidnapped at the entrance of his farm, which is located within the same vicinity. He noted that the police were already collaborating with other security agencies to track down the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the victim.
In addition, the Commander of the Ondo State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, also affirmed the incident. He revealed that operatives of the Amotekun Corps had swiftly mobilized and launched a manhunt to rescue the abducted politician. Adeleye assured the public that every necessary measure was being taken to locate the kidnappers and bring them to justice.
The abduction of Hon. Adepoyigi has sparked anxiety and outrage within the local community, with residents and political associates calling for urgent intervention by security forces and the state government. Many are also urging the federal government to intensify efforts to curb the rising spate of insecurity across the country.
As of the time of this report, there has been no official update on negotiations with the kidnappers or on any breakthroughs in the manhunt. The family of the victim remains hopeful for his safe return, while the authorities continue to work around the clock to secure his release.