Ondo Community Erupts in Protest Over Couple's Abduction by Bandits
Residents of Eleyewo community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State staged a massive protest on Saturday morning, February 21, 2026, following the abduction of a married couple by armed bandits. The demonstration saw angry locals take to the streets to voice their outrage and demand immediate action from security agencies.
Details of the Kidnapping Incident
The victims, identified as Jamiu Olawale and his wife, were kidnapped during a violent attack on the community on Friday night, February 20, 2026. According to police reports, the incident occurred at approximately 9:45 p.m. when the couple returned to their residence at Olaribigba Estate, Iluabo, in an ash-coloured Toyota Camry after closing their shop for the day.
Police spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh provided a detailed account: "The attackers emerged from the surrounding bush and abducted the couple at the frontage of their home, whisking them away to an unknown destination. During the assault, a neighbour, Mr. Patrick Ilumaro, who was seated in front of his residence, sustained a gunshot wound. He was promptly rushed to a hospital and is currently receiving medical treatment."
Protest Disrupts Major Highway
In response to the kidnapping, enraged residents blocked the busy Akure-Owo expressway for several hours, chanting solidarity songs and calling for the safe return of the abducted couple. The protest caused significant disruption to traffic until police personnel intervened to clear the road and restore normalcy for commuters.
Bandits Demand N80 Million Ransom
A family source revealed that the kidnappers have made contact with the victims' relatives, demanding a hefty ransom of N80 million for the couple's release. The relative stated: "The bandits have contacted the family of Mr. Jamiu and demanded N80 million for their release. They specifically requested N40 million to free each of them." This demand has heightened tensions in the community, with residents expressing fear and frustration over the escalating security challenges.
The incident underscores the growing threat of banditry and kidnapping in the region, prompting calls for enhanced security measures and swift intervention by law enforcement agencies to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
